In the relentless pursuit of quotas and the constant buzz of the corporate world, time felt like a commodity—always scarce and measured in the outcomes of sales and negotiations. My life in sales Xerox, Konica Minolta & Salesforce was a thrilling race against time, where every second counted towards the next big deal, the next milestone. Yet, amidst this exhilarating chase, the essence of time’s true value began to blur. It took a global pause—a pandemic that reshaped our world in 2020—and a bold decision to relocate to the forests of Nova Scotia for me to truly rediscover and redefine my relationship with time.
The decision to leave behind the corporate ladder and rebuild my life in a setting as tranquil as Nova Scotia’s forests marked the beginning of an extraordinary transformation. This wasn’t just a change of scenery; it was a profound shift in perspective. The corporate world, with its sales targets and strategic meetings, was replaced by the natural rhythms of the forest, where time tells a different story—one of growth, renewal, and the silent wisdom of the ages.
In this new chapter, success is no longer measured by the number of deals closed or the sales targets achieved, but by the quality of moments and the depth of experiences. The forest has taught me to see time not as a resource to be spent, but as a gift to be cherished. Each sunrise over the trees, each season’s change, serves as a reminder that the most valuable moments are those that connect us with something greater than ourselves—whether it’s the natural world, our loved ones, or the pursuit of our true passions.
To my fellow entrepreneurs, who know all too well the pressures of deadlines and the lure of perpetual busyness, I offer this reflection: there is profound strength in pausing, in stepping back from the constant pursuit of success to appreciate the journey itself. The transition from the fast-paced corporate world to a life attuned with nature’s pace has revealed that true success lies in our ability to savor each moment, to find balance, and to redefine our ambitions in a way that aligns with our deepest values.
This journey has not been a departure from the skills and lessons learned in sales; rather, it’s been an application of those lessons in a broader context. The ability to connect, to persuade, and to forge meaningful relationships—skills honed in the sales arena—have been invaluable in navigating this transition and in building a fulfilling life that prioritizes well-being, community, and personal growth.
As we navigate our own paths, let us take to heart the lesson that time’s swift passage is not something to be feared or fought against, but embraced with intention and gratitude. Let us find inspiration in change, courage in the pursuit of new beginnings, and joy in the simple, quiet moments that life offers. Whether you’re in the heart of the city or the solitude of the forest, remember that every day presents an opportunity to redefine success, to live fully, and to make each moment count.
Michael Broley
Michael Broley is a renowned web developer and branding consultant with a distinguished history of providing cutting-edge solutions to clients across diverse industries. With a steadfast commitment to excellence and a passion for creativity, Michael empowers businesses to establish a compelling online presence and cultivate a distinctive brand identity.