I didn't dedicate my day to choosing a blend or designing a packaging. Today's mission was to build what is perhaps the most important part of this journey: the community. I've been on the computer all morning, searching the depths of social media for other souls who share this passion.
When I started this process, I made a promise to myself: This brand won't be held captive by numbers or follower counts. I will always remember "why" I started. And my "why" was to share the passion for creating a great cigar with people who will truly understand and value it.
So today's session wasn't a follower hunt, but a listening and meeting session. I realized that the most enjoyable part of this solo journey is the moments when you feel like you're not alone at all.
Here's a list of things I tried to accomplish during this digital encounter today:
1. Discovering Inspiring Voices: My goal wasn't just to find popular accounts. I sought out masters who have dedicated years to this craft, enthusiasts who treat cigar reviews like an art form, and photographers who capture the essence of a Nicaraguan tobacco field in a single frame. Reading their posts served as inspiring lessons throughout this journey.
2. Joining the Conversation, Not Just Observing: I tried to answer someone's question about cigar-whiskey pairings with my knowledge. I shared my own concerns about a challenge someone else was experiencing. Because a community is built through two-way, genuine dialogue, not a one-way broadcast.
3. Piecing Together the Story: Reading discussions across different platforms gave me a better understanding of what people were looking for in a cigar. For some, it was the bold, spicy character of Nicaraguan tobacco, while for others, it was the story of the craftsmanship and heritage behind a cigar. These are invaluable insights that will shape the spirit of the brand I will create.
4. Inviting People to Share This Story: And yes, I reached out to people I wanted to follow this journey with me. But this wasn't a simple "follow" call. It was a heartfelt question:
"Would you like to witness this process from the very beginning, with all its challenges and triumphs, and help me shape this brand with your ideas?"
Even the best cigars lose their soul if not shared with the right people. My quest is not just to find the perfect cigar, but to build the perfect community with which to share it.
