By Jason Harvey, Founder of Common Coffee
Like most people, I start each year with a New Year’s resolution. It’s never something I can fully "achieve" but rather a guiding principle I can live by, improve on, and add to over time. I don’t overthink it; I wait for something to resonate with me. This year, as I set off on holiday on December 31st, I mulled over what 2025’s resolution might be. Between listening to Simon Sinek’s podcast on “working with friends” and reading about the importance of vulnerability in building genuine connections, an idea clicked. Given that “connecting with coffee” is at the heart of Common, focusing on vulnerability feels like the perfect resolution for me.
Running Common is a huge part of my life, something I’m incredibly grateful for, so it feels only natural to share my learnings, highlights, and struggles as part of this journey. My plan? Each month, I’ll peel back the curtain and let you in on what’s happening behind the scenes: the wins, the challenges, and yes, even the sleepless nights. My hope is twofold: that you’ll gain insight into the realities of small business life and that I’ll practice being more vulnerable. Maybe, just maybe, we’ll connect over a shared struggle or lesson along the way.
Why vulnerability matters
Why am I putting such emphasis on vulnerability this year? Simply put, I believe it’s a gateway to truth. Whether it’s with ourselves or others, vulnerability builds trust, accelerates learning, and helps us stay authentic.
In today’s noisy world, where everyone seems to be shouting how we should think, act, and feel, vulnerability can feel like a risk – like weakness. But I’d argue it’s the opposite. It’s the bridge to deeper connections, both with others and ourselves. If you’re wondering how to start, my advice is simple: lean into what scares you. Share it – with a friend, the world, or even just your journal. Chances are, that small act will shrink your fear, even just a little. And if you share it with someone else, they’ll likely appreciate your trust and see themselves in your story.
My first vulnerability: focusing
To kick things off, I’m sharing a struggle I face every day: focusing. Case in point, it’s taken me over seven hours to start this blog. I’ve been distracted by at least eight unrelated tasks (all self-induced), and I’ve rewritten this sentence five times while overthinking how this blog will be received. I keep telling myself it’s normal, but it’s something I wrestle with constantly.
Focusing, or the lack thereof, has real implications for me and Common. If you’ve faced similar challenges or have tips on improving focus, I’d love to hear from you. They say the first step is always the hardest, so here’s hoping the next 11 blogs come more easily.
Till next month – happy sipping!
