Livin' "La Pura Vida": Acquaint yourself with the Costa Rican way of life and happiness!

Monday: MicroBusiness and Marketing Marvels FROM THE DESK OF MILES EVERSON: Hello! How are you? I hope you all had a great weekend. Let’s start this week by continuing on with my Summer Happiness Challenge series. For 10 Mondays, we’ll talk about finding and achieving happiness through understanding various cultural traditions across the globe. Today, I’ll share my insights and learnings about the Costa Rican philosophy of happiness. Read on to learn about this country’s way of achieving happiness through embracing a simple and fulfilling lifestyle. CEO, MBO Partners Chairman of the Advisory Board, The I Institute

Livin' "La Pura Vida": Acquaint yourself with the Costa Rican way of life and happiness! Welcome to Costa Rica, a tropical paradise renowned not just for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife but also for its vibrant and infectious way of life that captures the essence of true happiness! Here, amidst the lush rainforests and pristine beaches, a unique philosophy flourishes—a philosophy that transforms everyday living into an art form of joy and contentment. This is a land where the pursuit of happiness is not just an ideal but a way of life, and where the secret to a fulfilling existence is woven into the very fabric of daily interactions and experiences. Join me as we explore this extraordinary approach! I assure you: This is one that promises not only to inspire but also to transform the way you see the world! “Pura Vida”: The Costa Rican Way of Happiness through Embracing a Simple and Fulfilling Lifestyle Literally translating to “pure life,” “Pura Vida” is much more than just a phrase; it is also a philosophy, a greeting, a farewell, and a way of being. This simple yet profound expression encapsulates the Costa Rican ethos of appreciating life’s simple pleasures. Here, the focus is on maintaining a positive outlook and living in harmony with oneself, others, and nature. The origins of “Pura Vida” can be traced back to the 1950s, though its exact beginnings are somewhat obscure. It only gained widespread popularity after the release of the Mexican movie, “Pura Vida!” in 1956. The phrase resonated deeply with Costa Ricans, or “Ticos,” who adopted it as a reflection of their laid-back, optimistic, and joyous way of life. If you want to truly understand “Pura Vida,” you must experience it firsthand. When you have time, you might want to book a flight to Costa Rica and spend a few days of vacation there! Whether you’re traveling alone or with your loved ones, I’m sure you’ll be having the time of your life in that Central American country. After all, in Costa Rica, the pace of life is unhurried, and the emphasis is on savoring every moment. Here’s how you can embrace the Pura Vida lifestyle while you’re there: Embrace Simplicity: Life in Costa Rica is beautifully uncomplicated. Ticos prioritize experiences over material possessions. Whether it’s enjoying a leisurely walk on the beach, sharing a meal with loved ones, or simply sitting under a tree, the focus is on the present moment. Cultivate Positivity: “Pura Vida” is synonymous with positivity. It’s about seeing the glass half full instead of half empty, and finding joy in the little things. This optimistic outlook is a cornerstone of Costa Rican happiness and resilience. Connect with Nature: Costa Rica’s natural beauty is unparalleled—from its lush rainforests and pristine beaches to its volcanic landscapes and abundant wildlife. Living “Pura Vida” means immersing yourself in nature, respecting the environment, and appreciating its gifts. Value Community: Relationships are at the heart of the “Pura Vida” philosophy. Ticos are known for their warmth, friendliness, and strong sense of community. Family and friends are cherished, and social connections are nurtured with care. Prioritize Well-being: In Costa Rica, well-being is paramount. This extends beyond physical health to include emotional and mental wellness. Activities like yoga, meditation, and mindfulness are embraced as pathways to a balanced and fulfilling life. Clearly, the influence of “Pura Vida” is evident in every aspect of Costa Rican society! In fact, in Costa Rican greetings, it’s common to hear “Hola, ¿cómo estás? Pura Vida!” (“Hello, how are you? Pure life!”) It’s a versatile expression used to say everything—from “thank you” to “you’re welcome” to “life is good.” This reflects the all-encompassing nature of the philosophy. … but did you know that the “Pura Vida” mindset also extends to the workplace? Unlike the high-stress, fast-paced work environments seen in many parts of the world, Costa Rican work culture emphasizes balance, flexibility, and a positive atmosphere. The concept of “work to live” rather than “live to work” is embraced. This contributes to the reason why the country’s levels of job satisfaction and overall happiness are consistently high. This is evidenced in the way Costa Rica consistently ranks among the happiest countries in the world. The country’s commitment to sustainability, peace, and social welfare all stem from this deep-rooted philosophy. What’s more? Visitors to Costa Rica often leave with more than just memories of stunning landscapes and thrilling adventures; they also depart with a newfound appreciation for life’s simple pleasures, as well as a desire to incorporate “Pura Vida” into their own lives. Bringing “Pura Vida” Home While the geographical beauty of Costa Rica cannot be transplanted, the essence of “Pura Vida” can certainly be embraced wherever you are. Do you believe that? You SHOULD! Allow me to share with you a few tips to incorporate this philosophy into your daily life: Slow Down: Take time to savor your daily experiences. Whether it’s your morning coffee, a walk in the park, or a conversation with a friend, be fully present. Practice Gratitude: Cultivate a habit of thankfulness. Reflect on the positive aspects of your life and express appreciation for the people and experiences that bring you joy. Connect with Others: Foster strong relationships. Spend quality time with your family and friends, and build a supportive community around you. Live Sustainably: Adopt eco-friendly practices. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and find ways to live in harmony with nature. Stay Positive: Focus on the bright side of life. View your challenges as opportunities and maintain an optimistic outlook. In a world that often feels chaotic and demanding, “Pura Vida” serves as a gentle reminder that happiness lies in simplicity, positivity, and connection. Even when you feel like everything spins faster with each passing day, being present is still not a far-fetched dream! There still exists a serene corner of the globe where time slows down, worries dissipate, and happiness thrives in its purest form. By embracing this Costa Rican philosophy, you’ll find not only a little more peace but also joy and fulfillment in your everyday life. I wish you “Pura Vida” from this day forward! Join me again next week as we move to Finland and learn about the country’s approach to happiness through “Sisu”! Hope you’ve found this week’s topic interesting and helpful. EXCITING NEWS AHEAD The world of work has shifted, and there’s no going back. The barriers to entry have never been lower for talented professionals to work independently, and today’s massive external workforce is hardly a pandemic-produced fad. Business owners can only survive in the new work landscape by partnering with this deep talent pool. With decades of experience in both small-business entrepreneurship and executive management at PwC, I truly believe that the future of work is independent. With that, I’m happy to share with you that my book, co-authored with Walter Scott Lamb, is now available for pre-order on Amazon! Free Birds Revolution: The Future of Work & The Independent Mind This is an essential read for both independent professionals and corporate executives. Here, we provide educational and practical guides to unpack the ever-growing workforce and offer you crucial ways to become a client of choice. Click on the link above to pre-order your copy. Let this book help you future-proof your career and organization in the new world of work.     Stay tuned for next Monday’s Marketing Marvels!