I used to specialize in strictly sensible office buildings.
Reconnecting with my passion and purpose really did a number on that belief! As I began my journey into the shadow, I sensed a growing courage to dream big, and of daring to bring those dreams to life.
One accomplishment early in my journey symbolizes to me the rewards of taking the dare.
I found myself imagining an office building like nothing I’d seen before. I called it Alhambra Towers, a jewel of an office building inspired by the great cathedrals of Spain. I envisioned it becoming the defining icon of Coral Gables, Florida — the strategic center of Greater Miami.
To realize the dream, we would have to spend far more than any normal office building would call for. We would have to find corporate tenants willing to pay a higher rent than had ever been paid in any office building in Coral Gables.
And to see it through, I’d have to commit myself — heart, soul and wallet. It was what I call a roll of the platinum dice.
But when you are powered by passion and purpose, and backed by years of practical experience, you are perfectly positioned to put your newfound freedom and courage to the test.
Was realizing the dream a cakewalk? No.
We encountered an onslaught of challenges (I’ll spare you the list). But, week by week, we persevered, and one by one, we overcame each challenge.
Today, against considerable odds, the award-winning Alhambra Towers stands in the heart of Coral Gables as a remarkable business and civic achievement — and our headquarters.When our team stepped back and saw what we had created, I thought, “What took me so long to figure out that my work should be more than my training, capability and opportunity?” It can also be an expression of passion and inspiration.
When I walk through the doors these days, I am reminded that my whole life must be about more than that. It must express what I value most.
And magnificent structures only hint at what that might be.