If you didn’t know I was from Hawaii, or currently reside in Hawaii and saw this photo, you may not know that it was a photo of the highest mountain in the world (when measured from its base on the seafloor) overlooking the pasturelands of what was once the largest singly owned cattle ranch in the world. Both happen to be located here, on the Big Island of Hawaii, in the middle of the Pacific Ocean!
Why do I bring this up? Because it is a great example of how beautiful diversity can be. Hawaii is SO diverse, not only are we blessed with incredible year-round weather, but this island in particular is home to 10 of the world’s 14 climate zones!
I attended a networking event this week and it was GREAT. It was GREAT not only because it was free, not only because the food was delicious, it was GREAT because it was all about networking around and within the diversity of our businesses. This was a space in which we were able to come to the table, chat about our businesses and collaborate on ways in which we can work together.
Hawaii allows that to happen for us.
Because we are located in the middle of the Pacific, we can’t afford to turn our backs on a new idea, or a new competitor just because it “might take away from our profit.” We need to adapt to the ever-changing climate, and if someone is in that space, then why not collaborate? For example, there was another business at this event that would be categorized as a competitor of mine. Did I stand in the corner and refuse to talk to them? Of course not. I gave them my business card. I asked them about their business, what they loved most about it. What their challenges were. And it was GREAT.
So when asked about my client base, my answer is often “it is as diverse as this island” and that is the truth. It’s a beautiful thing, delighting in diversity.
Here’s hoping you are doing the same for your own business, and if and when you need someone who can share your story or help you tell your own story. Feel free to give me a call!
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