“Kids, let’s talk about the real importance of a good night’s sleep.”
For whatever reason, that’s how I imagine comedian Bob Saget would open this blog if he were writing it.
And honestly, he wouldn’t be wrong, because a little bit of good rest is something I really think we all need. Maybe a little gratitude, too.
Here’s why.
Recently, I studied, listened and learned in a Capstone project and graduated from Denver International Airport’s Business Development Training Academy (BDTA) 100 & 200 classes, which means more success ahead for our kind of third-party safety risk mitigation. This is great news for Alder, where we focus on supporting the airport construction industry with people-driven safety solutions.
To celebrate, I attended a graduation gathering that was pretty un-toppable and included the usual pomp and circumstance: pins and buttons, DEN-branded clappers. And breakfast. Did these folks do breakfast right!
To top it off, as I walked up to receive my diploma I was met by Phillip A. Washington, CEO of DEN. Already such a presence at DEN, he took the time—because the topic at hand is of such importance—speaking to us on the impact of small businesses and how it changes the lives of the individuals and its community. Small business creates familial generational wealth through them and this is the backbone of this country.
Did the party end there? Heck no!
Airport Safety Manager at Denver International Airport Maurice Murray, ACE took Derek and I on an AOA tour of DEN’s work projects and folks, which gave me all the feelings as a business owner: some anxiety and lots of excitement. “We are really doing this, making airports safer,” I thought, and that’s the kind of encouragement that has kept me buzzing with energy ever since.
Alder has already collaborated with DFW Ops on several occasions regarding hotspots on the AOA at DFW and knows how to safely and efficiently remedy situations, resulting in a safer environment. We can do this at your airport, too!
We never fly alone
As the Bob Saget in my head might’ve put it, “Every airport is like a big family … lots of people, sometimes messy, always complicated. But they all want the same thing: for everyone to land safely.”
So here’s where I land.
Sleep matters—All those doctors were telling the truth: a good night’s sleep is invaluable to you. In fact, a single night of poor sleep can reduce alertness and attention span by up to 32%.
Recognition matters—A little deserved celebration makes life fun!
Gratitude matters—Gratitude activates brain regions like the ventral pigment area (VTA) and the medial prefrontal cortex which releases dopamine and serotonin. These are the same neurotransmitters targeted by many antidepressants!
I’m thankful for everyone who has supported me through this journey. This program graduation was a reminder that with connection and gratitude, we can build something lasting in this industry.
Now, kids, I’m going to go get some sleep.