The Greatest Business Lessons Come From Life and Even Loss
The Greatest Business Lessons Often Come in Unexpected Ways
The greatest business lessons may not always happen in the middle of a business deal. They often arrive in ways we least anticipate, through relationships, personal growth, and moments of reflection.
Here’s a story of some of the biggest life and business lessons I’ve learned, inspired by my dear friend Terra, whose wisdom continues to guide me.
The Beginning of a Friendship That Changed Everything
In early 2004, I met Terra under serendipitous circumstances. I had just returned to the U.S. after teaching English in Honduras and moved to the San Francisco Bay Area. While searching for housing, her listing for a shared home in the Oakland Hills came to me through three separate channels in one week.
From the moment we met, we connected deeply, and I soon moved into her house in Montclair. Terra quickly became one of the most influential people in my life.
Both of us were life coaches when the concept was still emerging. Over the next 15+ years, we were roommates, neighbors, collaborators, and best friends. We co-facilitated workshops, created community houses, supported each other’s businesses, and shared countless adventures.
Through it all, Terra profoundly shaped my personal and professional growth. Here are three of the most impactful business lessons I learned from her.
1. The Power of Seeing and Honoring Unique Gifts
One of Terra’s greatest superpowers was her ability to see and honor the unique gifts in others.
Shortly after I became her roommate, she noticed how enthusiastically I organized our kitchen on move-in day. She asked for my help in organizing her office and healing space. She even suggested I become a professional organizer, recognizing my knack for it. That conversation inspired me to start a professional organizing business, complementing my life coaching practice for years.
Terra’s ability to see potential wasn’t limited to me. She had a “soul purpose x-ray vision” that allowed her to reflect people’s gifts back to them with precision. Whether in workshops, women’s circles, or casual conversations, she helped others discover their potential and purpose.
This lesson taught me the value of recognizing and amplifying the strengths of those around me—an invaluable skill in both life and business.
2. Commit to Personal Growth and Positive Impact
Terra was deeply committed to personal growth and making a positive impact that rippled into the world.
She continually sought opportunities to learn and apply new knowledge. From her early work with the unhoused population in Los Angeles to becoming a Reiki Master and leading transformative coaching sessions, she embodied a growth mindset.
Her dedication to self-improvement inspired me to approach business with the same mindset: always seeking growth, embracing challenges, and striving to make a meaningful impact.
3. Don’t Wait—Say Yes to Opportunities
One of the most transformative lessons Terra taught me was to pursue what I want when the opportunity arises.
In May 2018, I mentioned to her that I had found a used Prius in my favorite color, “Sea Glass Pearl.” Her simple question—“What are you waiting for?”—spurred me into action. I bought the car that same day.
This philosophy extended far beyond material decisions. Terra lived boldly, pursuing her dreams, traveling the world, and constantly reinventing herself. Her example encouraged me to stop waiting for perfect circumstances and take steps toward my goals, no matter how small they might seem.
A Final Lesson: Aging Is a Privilege
After Terra’s passing, I reflected deeply on her life and the lessons she left behind. One realization stood out: aging is a privilege.
Instead of lamenting the passage of time, I’ve learned to embrace it with gratitude. Every wrinkle and gray hair is a testament to the life I’ve lived and the relationships I’ve cherished.
Applying These Business Lessons to Life
Terra’s impact continues to ripple through my life and work. She reminds me to live fully, pursue my dreams without hesitation, and value the unique contributions of those around me.
In 2023, I finally stopped waiting for the “perfect” circumstances to align. I let go of my decade-long vision of finding a partner and settling in Asheville, NC, and embraced my dream of traveling to warmer climates during winter.
This winter, I’m living in Mexico—a decision Terra would have enthusiastically supported. I’m so grateful to feel like I’m living full out rather than waiting for something.
What Are You Waiting For?
The greatest business lessons often mirror life’s truths. They challenge us to reflect, take action, and grow.
What are you waiting for? What’s one thing you’ve been putting off that’s bubbling to the surface?
Take one small step today toward your dreams. Whether it’s a personal goal or a professional milestone, the journey begins with a single decision.
If I can support your process, let’s connect.
