The Future is Bright: Charting the Course in 2024

As we step into a new year, I find myself pausing to look back on the past while eagerly anticipating what lies ahead. 

What have I learned? What are my goals — both professionally in the DMC space and in my personal life? 

As a managing partner of 360 Destination Group , you may know a bit about me, but not everything. So, as we ring in the new year, I thought, why not pull back the curtain a bit? 

So here's a glimpse into my world and the journey that's shaped me in this ever-dynamic industry, and a few philosophies that have helped guide me along the way.

Tip #1: Surround Yourself with the Right People

I never believed I would want to be in the destination management industry even though I was raised by very driven, strong, and business savvy parents from the DMC world. I learned and was surrounded by the true pioneers of the industry. To hear the war stories and the successes, but most importantly the failures, were the most valuable and impactful lessons in my life. 

There’s no such thing as a normal day as a corporate event planner. In this industry, today is nothing like yesterday and tomorrow will be nothing like today. The more I’m in the DMC space, the more I fall in love with it — the creativity, the people, and the business really hits all of my “wants” in a career. 

Influential People in My Life

Simon Sinek says, “If we were good at everything, we would have no need for each other.” I’ve learned from so many people — industry experts, political experts, financial gurus, and health and wellness specialists, to name a few! To learn a specific craft is hard but attainable when you surround yourself with the right people. My team is my lifeline, and I learn something from them every day.

Professionally, the person who’s impacted me the most is my business coach/mentor and Vistage chair, Les Whitney. He taught me that business is business no matter the industry. He also instilled in me that you should know every inch of your business, especially your numbers, at all times.  

From a personal standpoint, I would have to say that my mother has impacted me the most. A maverick in the DMC industry, she taught me that being genuine from the heart will carry you far in business, life, and most importantly, with family. 

Tip #2: Let Passion Drive You

I believe wholeheartedly that passion drives life. It’s worth it to take the time to pinpoint what it is that you love and are willing to work toward. Your passion may be totally unique and look nothing like the people around you, but it’s yours to nurture and grow. 

Find Balance

Finding balance in your life while pursuing what you love is an important practice. I've always held the view that finding that equilibrium is a personal journey, shaped by what brings you joy and fulfillment. Each person may have a different version of balance and how they incorporate love, work, family, religion, and health into their life. 

Really, balance is all about our individual preferences to create the life we want. For example, my most important hour of the day is my workout. It frees my mind so I’m my best in the other areas of my life. But, when it comes down to it, my five daughters and loving wife help guide my priorities every day. Their presence allows me to focus and replicate that feeling of love and purpose to the 360DG family. 

Learn From Your Mistakes

It can take time to figure out what works for you. Life’s a journey and make no mistake, we all make mistakes. Every one of my past slip-ups is an opportunity for me to learn something new. Failed businesses, divorce, and terrible partnerships are just a few of my experiences, but I’ve grown from every single one of them. Not all days are easy, but the end result is a full and meaningful life.

Tip #3: Look to the Future

As I look ahead to the new year, I plan to leave no stone unturned because life is not a dress rehearsal. I want to push outside of my comfort zone everyday no matter if it’s in my work or personal life. 

Professionally, 360 Destination Group is a big source of pride and accomplishment. I’m overwhelmed with excitement about where the company is headed. The future has never been so bright!

Send me a DM to connect with me or visit 360 Destination Group to learn more. Here's to taking wisdom from our yesterdays and charging into the new year full steam ahead!