I spent this last week in Tahoe with my girlfriend Elizabeth, celebrating our one year anniversary.
It was time to snowboard and relax!
I haven’t snowboarded very much in the last 15 years, so snowboarding with her for the first time was a real treat, to say the least. The first thing that stuck out to me was how much I genuinely enjoyed supporting her on the mountain. I kept turning my head, watching her and rooting her on. That meant a lot to me.
We also happened to be staying at a fantastic resort/hotel, and the service at that resort really stood out to us. I’m happy to say that one of the things I appreciate most about our time together over this past year is how we both treat people in the service business.
The service business can be tough, and many workers don’t get the credit they deserve. From shuttle drivers to baristas, randoms on the street to bar backs, we thought the people of Tahoe were absolutely fantastic and made our trip very special.
Special shout outs to the two sommeliers (Troy and Jay) at the Edge Restaurant, as well as Bill and Marleigh, our wonderful servers. The energy they brought to the restaurant, along with the conversations and genuine interest in their customers, was refreshing.
Another thing that stood out to me this past week is the type of work that Elizabeth and I are trying to do together as a couple to be better human beings. I recall the book “Do Hard Things ” by Steve Magness when I think about some of our conversations this past week.
As I’ve mentioned to her many times, I expect greatness and despise mediocrity. I’m looking at our actions and where we want to go as a couple, and I’m very much focused on being what many would call a “power couple.” I use the words power couple because it’s the easiest way to explain it.
This revolves around taking care of our minds and bodies, taking care of those around us who would benefit from our hard work and wisdom, and truly doing something great for society as we become stronger and more impactful citizens of this great country.
I’ve said this to her since the beginning. It’s probably going to feel like I’m nitpicking at times, but I’m very much enamored with how certain details make a very big difference in the grand scheme of things. Things that others see as stupid little details I have watched make massive impacts in the short and long term scheme of things.
She has chosen to ride with me on this journey, and I’m beyond grateful for that. I’ve learned a ton, and I know I’ll continue to learn by having her by my side.
As for this week, it’s preparation for NADA 2026! It’s a big year with us bringing nine team members and having much clearer goals for the show. We also have a cold-calling engine led by our Sales Director and BDR, building some momentum as we approach the show.
My personal goal this week is to look at my interactions with my close network and make sure I’m delivering feedback with compassion and conviction at the same time.
Leaning a little more towards compassion will benefit everyone around me.
Forward.
– SJ