We were lucky to catch up with David LaSalle recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi David, so happy to have you on the platform and I think our readers are in for a treat because you’ve got such an interesting story and so much insight and wisdom. So, let’s start with a topic that is relevant to everyone, regardless of industry etc. What do you do for self-care and how has it impacted you?
After purchasing our commercial building and business in Estes Park in 2016, we realized quickly that unless we built balance into our lives, it would be very easy to get subsumed by the requirements of running a business and managing a commercial property. Fortunately, Estes is surrounded by Rocky Mountain National Park and Roosevelt National Forest, so getting recuperative time in nature was pretty easy. Having a fitness center in our building also made regular workouts a no-brainer. Making time to burn stress, stay healthy and enjoy the mountains has made work a pleasure, not a burden.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Taking the lessons from our own experience, we created a business that integrates tech-infused productivity with nature-inspired wellbeing. We are convinced – because we get to live it – that where you work can make you happy, healthy and inspired. Our coworking space is ergonomically designed with sit-stand desks, wobble boards, extra monitors, healthy snacks and beverages, all wrapped up in a beautiful space with views of the continental divide, lots of natural light, fireplaces and cozy communal areas. We work hard to promote community, introducing our members to each other, holding regular gatherings in our facility and leading group outings into the adjacent outdoors. Our group fitness classes have created a thriving community of like minded people dedicated to relationship and shared wellness.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Stay focused on trying to see the experience of your business not just from your own point of view but also from the perspective of your clients and customers. Product – market mismatch is the primary reason businesses fail – understand what your community needs and work to be very good at meeting that.
Treat your team members as valued partners in the business adventure. Listen to their input and help them grow, even if it means growing beyond your business. Compensate them as well as you possibly can. Be the place high performers want to work.
Choose to do something you value and enjoy. There will always be elements of running an organization that don’t peg the fun meter but if you’re dedicated to a mission you find interesting and important, staying motivated during the challenging times is so much easier!
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
We are always looking to expand our community with those who prioritize “life success.” We firmly believe that there is nothing sadder than an unhealthy, unhappy rich person. Our aspiration, and what we look for in those we bring into our lives, is to integrate professional excellence with mutually beneficial relationships and a commitment to physical, mental and emotional health. After successful international careers, making a difference in a small town where community and interpersonal relationships are sought after and valued is critical for us and anyone with whom we choose to partner. We try to be investors, not extractors, in our community and welcome conversations with anyone seeking to make a similar contribution in our beautiful part of the Rocky Mountains. I welcome contact at david@vertcoworking.com.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://vertcoworking.com/
- Instagram: VertCoworking
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VertCoworking
Image Credits
David LaSalle, John Berry, Kevin Benes
