My favourite Café. A place to ‘Just Be’.

Entrepreneurs are the fuel in our economic engine – they are powering the businesses we rely on and enjoy, every day. These businesses are gently woven into the fabric of our communities.  They are part of us.

It is the morning detour for a much-needed caffeine fix. It is a long-overdue visit to the tailor for some stitching work because you neither have the tools nor the inclination to do it yourself.  It is our beloved Pet Groomer who, with patient precision, transforms our fur babies into their peak cuteness. It’s our favourite sushi spot when only the very best sushi roll will do.

Most of my career has been centred around Entrepreneurship, one way or another. I am always impressed with an Entrepreneur’s passion, motivation, and drive.

To be their best. To be the best. Entrepreneurs aspire to be our chosen ‘go-to’ place. 

With so many options, why do we choose one place over another? What is it that attracts us, motivates us to return, and inspires us to tell others?  

I am always drawn to understanding the ‘Why‘?

Understanding the Why is connecting with the Heart.  

So with my observation antennas strategically focused on the Why, I entered my local café.

I started my day with an early morning coffee catch-up date with a friend of mine at my local café, Apartment 3 Espresso Bar.  As I gently pull the door open, I am immediately greeted with a genuine and welcoming “Good morning!”

It’s not forced. It’s authentic. At least that’s how it feels to me.

The place is buzzing, but not in a sensory overloaded way.  It’s a gentle surge of all things good.

I can’t help but smile.

I ordered my usual – a delicious latte treat made with care and attention by the friendly barista. Her smile is the outward sign that she is happy.  She slides over a latte so good it is always worthy of a foamy milk heart. I always admire its subtle symbol of kindness – a sweet language enjoyed by all latte enthusiasts.

My friend and I were both tempted. The colourful inviting display of donuts and sweet treats, which are delivered daily from a local bakery, Vandal Doughnuts made it impossible to resist. I am always impressed by the intentional collision of two businesses, each sharing their own strength in partnership.

As I sat enjoying my latte in the comfort of this bright and welcoming space, I looked around. Others were doing the same. Some were alone, diligently working on their laptops or scrolling through their phones with earbuds tethered. I wondered what they were listening to.

Another person is embracing the solitude of a few more pages in their chosen novel. As an avid reader, I am compelled to glance at the book title – a reader’s recommendation on public display.

Others were in pairs or trios enjoying their conversations – some more animated than others.

At one point, three police officers entered dressed in full tactical gear. In epic unison, our collective heads were on a swivel.

I wondered if they ever tire from the obvious attention. Their presence was palpable. I suppose when they are geared up like that, it is impossible to subtly slip into a room. I digress.

With their caffeine fix in hand, they carried on with their business of serving and protecting.  

And it suddenly struck me – as much as we are unique, we are also similar.  At this moment, what we were doing didn’t really matter. What mattered is that we all choose to do it from here – our cozy little café haven.

It became so clear. Almost visceral.

We are Alone, but Together.

Beyond the delicious lattes and sweet treats, my local café offers a place to ‘just be’.  Just Be. Yourself. 

Eventually, my latte was finished. My friend and I were all caught up – both of us sufficiently caffeinated to seize the day.  It was time to bid farewell.  Farewell to my friend, and farewell to the little café community oasis. 

I know I will return soon. My favourite café, Apt 3 has that effect on me. 

Its cozy comfort and invitation to Just Be will always draw me back.

With gratitude,

Nicole Osmond

Customer Success Coach

As a Customer Success Coach and 3 X business owner, I am living my passion and helping companies succeed by cultivating a customer committed mindset.

A Writer with Heart – I weave words together to stimulate, elevate, and motivate. My blog is my canvas to share my ‘experience nuggets’ with you! Thanks for stopping by! With gratitude, always – Nicole