We had the good fortune of connecting with David Bridges and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi David, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I think, like many people, the reason I decided to start my own business is quite simple. I was searching for something that I simply couldn’t find in the marketplace. I struggled for for over 2 years trying to buy a home and frankly, I couldn’t find someone that met my needs and expectations as a buyer. I wanted to set a bar for my community, my friends and family their loved ones, that I knew would be different from their previous experiences. I believed that I had the skillset and forward thinking mindset that would make a positive impact on the city I love and the clients I serve. Even now, when I think back to the beginning and making the decision to become the face of my own brand, I am quite terrified. Sometimes though, it’s important to put the fear on the back burner, it will always be there, and just take the leap.
The one thing I know to be true is that people will do business with you because of WHY you do what you do. The why that gets you out of bed every morning and gets you excited for the day. Starting my own business made sense for my personal WHY. I enjoy connecting with people. That is it. If it sounds too simple, I promise you it is not. Real, genuine connections are what drive me on a daily basis. And now – In my profession, I get to leverage my passion for meaningful relationships and help my clients in a more profound and experiential way.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
When I made the decision to pursue being a Real Estate agent, I definitely struggled with it. How many Real Estate agents do you know? 2,3, 5,10, 20? How would I stand out in a sea of similarity?
I referenced this a bit in one of my previous answers and I think this just reverberates here and echoes that same sentiment. I decided that I would aim to differentiate myself by having a clear vision for who I am and why I do what I do. Having a clear vision allows you to be direct and focused when pursuing your goal and that has made all the difference for me.
Was it easy? Absolutely not. It was the hardest and most nerve-wracking thing I have ever done professionally. I left a luxury corporate role that I held happily and comfortably for 5 years, to take the leap. For me, taking the risk was a matter of believing I could do and being fortunate enough to have people around me supporting me and pushing me to pursue something more for myself. Eventually, I did just that. I can tell you that it never gets easier, but it is never so hard that I wish I did not try. One thing I would love to share with anyone reading this is that failure is only permanent when you concede to it. Keep going.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I am a little biased, since I am a GIANT Atlanta Hawks fan – but my favorite spot in all of Atlanta is State Farm Arena. Seriously. I am a HUGE fan and will absolutely never miss a home game.
Atlanta has a unique heartbeat and pulse as a city. It has so much life and energy. Growing up in the area gives means I have a lot of places that I love, but since no one is asking for a dissertation, I’ll give a quick shout out to a few of my favorites for food and entertainment.
FOOD:
– Yakitori Jinbei. One of the best hidden gems for Ramen in town.
– Arnette’s Chop House. Great atmosphere but an absolutely must try sundae…. seriously. do it.
– Goodfellas – the best lemon pepper wings in Atlanta, wet or dry…. very important.
– Bar Margot – amazing wine and whisky selection. great atmosphere, music and a constantly changing menu.
ENTERTAINMENT:
– AMP – an outdoor go kart track about an hour north of the city. The track was built and designed by Formula 1 engineers and is often considered one of the best karting experiences in the county. Karts go 55 mph… which means – it’s a lot of fun!
– Revery VR bar – awesome place to go and chill with a small group of friends, just make sure to go before the late night starts if you don’t want to wait a long time.
– The High Museum of Art – I really love art, especially minimalism and modern art. The High has wonderful exhibits that rotate often so there is always something new. With a new Board of Directors at the helm, we have seen a focus on street art, which I think is is really fun and entertaining and a testament to Atlanta’s wonderful and creative culture.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My team is incredible. If you are only as strong as your weakest link, then I am in a wonderful position. I have to shout out my team at BrownDaniel Group because they are the most knowledgable and selfless individuals that anyone could hope to work with. I have an amazing content team at Cherry Studios that are experts at communicating my brand voice. My girlfriend, who tolerates all of the interrupted dates, dinners, evenings and plans because she respects and supports the hustle. Nisha and Hetal, my friendship with you both has created passion, growth and a drive for success so I can share it with those I love. My dog Wilson for snoring so loudly that I can’t sleep in. And last but certainly not least, my Mom. Thank you all for your support and dedication to my success.
Website: www.browndanielgroup.com
Instagram: @bridges_browndaielgroup
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/dnbridges
Image Credits
@geoffmitchellphoto My dear friend, Geoff has an amazing eye for sharp lines. Knowing how picky and neurotic I can be, he always does an amazing job. A little secret here, I hate being in front of a camera so being comfortable with someone photographing me is extremely important.