Creating a Buzz: How a Greek Vacation & Honey Bees Reflect My Business Approach

Our family is poised to embark on an unforgettable 11-day vacation to the stunning landscape of Greece. My emotions are a whirlwind of excitement and anticipation. The thrill comes from the prospect of creating lasting memories with our boys, my partner Kara, her mother, and her husband, Ken. We have an itinerary brimming with extraordinary experiences: from exploring the "Blue Zone" of Ikaria, savoring the sumptuous flavors of Greece's cuisine, to engaging in rock climbing, diving, and cave jumping. Our days will overflow with hiking and discoveries aplenty. What has my heart racing the most is the planned visit to a bee apiary in Ikaria. Recently, my mentor posed a question to me, "Ashley, why the fascination with bees and why The Traveling Bee?" My answer was simple, "Coop, bees are a marvel of nature. Their intricate systems are fascinating - essential to maintaining the hive, producing honey, and ensuring survival. They work in unison, taking care of each other and their queen. Most importantly, they leave the safety of their hive to explore and seek out newly bloomed flowers. Upon their return, they share their findings, allowing the entire hive to flourish. This, I believe, mirrors the ethos of running a business and leading a lifestyle you love. In business, as in a bee colony, you need well-implemented systems, a dependable team, and the courage to step out of your comfort zone to explore and learn. It's crucial to bring back insights that can be used to enrich and grow the business. Here's a little secret, too: this approach to life and work makes you better. Better as a leader, as an entrepreneur, as a friend, a partner, and a parent. Why? Because you're architecting a lifestyle that your business sustains, fostering a harmonious balance that benefits every aspect of your life.