The Reason I Have Coffee with a New Person Every Day

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

For many years, I was a self-proclaimed non-coffee drinker. I prided myself on my high energy levels and ability to function without the need for caffeine. However, all of that changed when I became a father. Suddenly, my energy levels plummeted, and I found myself in need of a pick-me-up to get through the day. It was then that I took my first sip of coffee, and I was instantly hooked.

As I delved into the world of coffee, I realized that it presented an opportunity for me to connect with others in a meaningful way. I decided to start having coffee meetings with different people six days a week, with the goal of building new relationships and learning from others. I found that coffee shop meetings provided a comfortable setting for genuine conversations and allowed for authentic connections to be made.

Networking has always been a passion of mine, and I believe that surrounding yourself with new friends and different perspectives is key to personal and professional growth. By connecting with a diverse range of individuals, I have been able to expand my network and gain valuable insights into various industries. Whether it’s recommending a canning company for an energy drink or connecting someone with a button manufacturer for a clothing line, I have found joy in being able to help others make meaningful connections.

Entrepreneurship is a journey that thrives on innovation, creativity, and connection. It cannot exist in isolation, and the saying “It takes a village” rings true in the world of business. By starting my day with a coffee meeting and learning from someone new, I am able to gain fresh perspectives that fuel my motivation and drive to succeed.

Over the years, I have cultivated over 500 new relationships through my “Coffee with Closers” initiative. Each meeting has provided me with a unique opportunity to learn from others and showcase their success and kindness. In fact, my coffee journey even led me to become a founding investor in a startup coffee company, showcasing the full circle nature of connections and opportunities that can arise from a simple cup of coffee.

In conclusion, while I may have initially resisted the allure of coffee, I have come to embrace it as a tool for building relationships, fostering connections, and fueling my entrepreneurial spirit. The simple act of sharing a cup of coffee with someone new has opened doors to endless possibilities and enriched my life in ways I never could have imagined. So, the next time you find yourself hesitating to reach out and connect with others, remember that a simple coffee meeting could be the start of something truly extraordinary.