Hello from Latvia Everyone,
This post may require a Espresso Martini instead of a shot of Espresso in your coffee. I'm writing this from a small cafe in Latvia. The air is crisp, the coffee is strong, and across the table, my best friend is just… being. Her presence here, far from the hustle, has been a beautiful reminder of what’s real. It’s also brought to light a quiet ache I’ve been carrying.
Over the last few months, as I’ve launched my book and built this business, I’ve had to do some serious weeding in the garden of my relationships. It’s hard to admit, but some people I thought were my biggest champions turned out to be just… silent. The friends I championed, the mentors whose wisdom I sought, they weren’t there when it came time to support me in return. That sting of realizing loyalty was more of a seasonal thing, a fair-weather performance, cut deeper than I expected. I have heard other entrepreneurs say this about family and friends, but never thought this would apply to my tribe. NEVER! Boy was I wrong.
But here’s the most important thing I’ve learned in this quiet corner of the world. The kind of support that heals, that empowers, and that truly helps you grow isn’t always found in a formal mentorship or a fancy title. It's often found sitting right across from you. It's in the friendships that challenge you, the people who have your back without a single word of public fanfare, and the ones who buy your book not for show, but because they believe in you.
This is why I’ve created something I call The Tribe Map, a framework for cultivating genuine connections. It's grounded on building a network with intention, knowing that every single person in your life plays a specific, vital role.
The Cheerleader: The person who celebrates your wins, big or small, with infectious joy.
The Challenger: The one who pushes you, respectfully, to be better. They believe in your potential more than your comfort.
The Connector: The friend who sees an opportunity and, without a second thought, puts you in the room.
The Mentor: The one whose wisdom and experience you can lean on, no matter the situation.
The Mirror: The person who reflects your true self back to you, reminding you of your strength and worth.
I have some of the above in my Garden, and I still growing a few. However, what I have realized plucking the weeds and nurturing the real flowers is a vital reset of growth, self learning, and redefining the value of what I call friend.
So, as you sip your espresso martini this week, take a moment to look at your own garden. Who is truly there for you? And what can you do to nourish those relationships? Remember, you don't have to do it all alone. The bravest thing we can do sometimes is simply to lean into the support of the people who truly love us.
P.S. If you're ready to start building your own Tribe Map and cultivating a network that truly has your back, my book and journal are the perfect place to start. Find them on my website!
Until next time, Stay Fueled, own your story & burn the script.
XOXOXO Jenny
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