Precious Cargo

The journey through my mother's lessons continues, offering further insights into her impact on my business practices. Today we are going to dive into the softer skills she taught me and it involves something she never failed to mention before I boarded a plane. Every time, without fail, she would ask, 'You know what to tell the pilot, right?' My expected response was always, 'Yes ma’am, there’s precious cargo on the plane today.' 

Although I never actually told a pilot this, the message was clear: Mom loved me deeply. I will feel her absence every time I fly as it was a requirement to talk to her on the phone before every trip and text her when I take off and land—a ritual she insisted on as recent as Memorial Day this year when clearly I am a fully grown adult.

While I will never get on a plane without hearing her words echo in my heart, the words precious cargo mean so much more to me than come home safely. Mom always made sure that the people she loved knew exactly how she felt.  

She never left such important things unsaid; everyone in her life knew they were precious cargo to her. 

In business, I’ve taken Mom’s teachings and applied them to the teams I’ve led and the clients I serve. Just as she ensured that everyone in her life knew they were 'precious cargo,' I’ve made it a priority to show the same level of care and respect to those I work with. This approach has been critical to my leadership journey, fostering a culture where team members feel valued, supported and empowered. By treating my clients with the same attentiveness, I’ve built stronger, more trusting relationships that go beyond transactions.

Embracing these softer skills has taught me that genuine care and connection are not just nice-to-haves but essential components of a successful and resilient business. Whether it’s a team member or a client, recognizing each person as 'precious cargo' helps create an environment where people feel seen, appreciated and motivated to contribute their best.