Every so often it is important to unplug and reboot your brain, which helps to gain new, much needed perspective. That is exactly what I did just this past month. I was immersed in the mesmerizing Four Corners region — backpacking the breathtaking Havasupai Falls, exploring enchanting slot canyons in Monument Valley, and motorcycle riding in Moab.
As I closed my laptop for the last time in ten days, little did I know that the experiences and insights gained along the way would forever shape my perspective on life, and the cannabis business. From the excitement of the open road, to the awe-inspiring power of nature, this experience brought valuable lessons that reminded me of the importance of simplicity, adaptability, connection, and the gifts of embracing the unexpected.
I felt compelled to share my transformative journey.
Photo of Williams, Arizona along Route 66/.Credit:Scottb211CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
1. Appreciate Simplicity
Stopping in the small towns along the way I discovered a shared appreciation for slow-paced simplicity. Business owners seem to know everyone on a first name basis and nurture personal connections. The waitresses smile genuinely, not because they are trying to close a deal. It reminded me of the power of genuine human interaction.
In stark contrast to the impersonal experience of being on Zoom all the time, it struck me that humanistic simplicity can often be the key to success. In the complex world of business, taking the time to know our customers intimately and building genuine relationships can lead to lasting success and loyalty.
Photo by Michael Warren
2. Be Adaptable
The decline of small towns along Route 66 due to changing highways back in the 1950’s highlighted the importance of adaptability. The businesses that weathered the storm were those that embraced change and sought new opportunities. In business, the future remains uncertain, and clinging to old ways can lead to failure. This vital lesson of staying agile, continuously evolving, and being open to new possibilities in the face of uncertainty, like many of us are facing in cannabis today, graced me with some resilience.
Photo by Michael Warren
3. The Power of Nature
As I gazed upon a majestic 100-foot waterfall, it dawned on me that greatness isn’t achieved overnight. It reaffirmed to me that true success requires perseverance, as nature itself demonstrates.
Photo of the author, Michael Warren, on his recent trip
Just as canyons and waterfalls are sculpted over countless years, building a successful startup requires time and patience. It involves laying a strong foundation, developing a solid strategy, and steadily making progress towards goals. This humbling realization allowed me to focus on my long-term journey as a cannabis professional.
Photo by Michael Warren of his friends, Glen and Nicko, on their recent trip
4. The Importance of Connection
Shared experiences and challenges during a road trip, or even in day-to-day life, emphasize the significance of human connection. Whether it’s different goals or opinions with travel companions, conflicts with business partners, or the roller coaster ups and downs of client interactions, these moments act like catalysts, fostering lifelong bonds. This lesson underscored the importance of building trust and cherishing the connections that shape our lives.
Photo of the author, Michael Warren, on his recent trip
5. Embracing the Unexpected
Getting lost during a motorcycle ride taught me to embrace the unexpected. Instead of succumbing to panic, I chose to stay calm and find solace in the beauty surrounding me. This experience reminded me that wrong turns and detours often lead to valuable lessons and new opportunities. Sometimes taking the wrong path, can allow us to discover the right one, while gaining wisdom to navigate the path to success.
6. The Power of Perspective
Reflecting on the road trip, a profound sense of gratitude and renewed purpose enveloped me. By embracing the twists and turns, I gained a fresh perspective on life and business. It became clear that by incorporating the lessons of simplicity, adaptability, resilience, connection, and embracing the unexpected, I could grow personally and uncover new opportunities for success.
Photo by Michael Warren
As I returned from my road trip adventure, I carried with me a treasure trove of lessons learned. The journey had rekindled my spirit, offering valuable insights into the power of simplicity, adaptability, connection, and embracing the unexpected. By applying these lessons to our own lives and businesses, we can embark on transformative journeys of our own, filled with growth, resilience, and boundless opportunities for success.
So ask yourself: What transformative journey are you currently on, and how can you embrace the unexpected to unlock your own growth and success?
Michael Warren, aka “The Profit Whisperer” is a cannabis consultant who specializes in streamlining and optimizing cannabis cultivations while boosting profits in the regulated sector. Michael is the founder of GrowthProfit Consultants and the go-to guru for those looking to elevate their cannabis business profits.
