Change the Pathway

My time as a Manufacturers' Representative offered continuous learning opportunities. No doubt my primary objective was relationship building. Sales appeared as a result. That understanding of order (relationship = sale) was a big wake-up versus the preconceived notion of (sale = relationship) that had always been drilled into me, although that's another dynamic for another post!

A key lesson from that time is the necessity to change paths.

I covered the Mid-Atlantic region as a Manufactured Representative, Upstate NY south to Northern Virginia. Covered efficiently via a car - too small for air travel. As I traversed the same routes from Wilmington to Baltimore, Philadelphia to Erie and Syracuse to Buffalo I was, at various times, moved to consider my route. Often identical to previous travels the month(s) before, I would often begin wondering about all the businesses I was whizzing past.

So rather than wonder "what do they do?" - I got off the highway. I slowed down and took a different path. State Route, County Highway. Roads with stop lights and non-direct directions to my final destination. Through towns that were small, where I didn't know anyone or any businesses.

Guess what happened?

I explored. I discovered. I imagined. I got the door closed and it was opened. I met new people. Made new friendships. And I eventually made some sales.

I don't travel those Mid-Atlantic paths anymore but the sense of curiosity that moved me onto new roads still guides me. As I cruise the Interstates to known destinations, important meetings and tasks I still look on those alternate paths and wonder what's awaiting the traveler who gets off, slows down and explores.

From my experience - good things.