We were lucky to catch up with Robert Rush recently and have shared our conversation below.
Robert, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s jump to the end – what do you want to be remembered for?
Building a legacy is about the impact we leave on others and how we inspire them to chase their dreams, especially in the face of adversity. For me, the legacy I aspire to create revolves around empowering first-time small business owners, particularly those who come from less affluent backgrounds. I want to be remembered as someone who believed in the power of perseverance and hard work, someone who demonstrated that anything is possible when you put in the effort—blood, sweat, and tears included.
I envision a future where people will say I was a guiding light for those navigating the complex world of entrepreneurship. I want to instill in them the unwavering belief that when you pour your heart and soul into your business, nothing can hold you back. Success is often just a matter of determination: when faced with challenges, it’s our reactions that define us. The difference between those who thrive and those who falter often lies in their choice to keep pushing forward, even when the odds seem stacked against them.
I understand that the journey is fraught with difficulties—there will be days when it feels like everything is falling apart. Yet, I want to encourage aspiring business owners to see obstacles not as barriers but as stepping stones to success. My goal is to show them that the ability to rise after a setback is what separates a successful entrepreneur from the rest. I want to be a mentor who stands by their side, urging them to keep moving, to persist, and to maintain belief in themselves, even when others may doubt them.
Later in life, I hope to take this mission a step further by visiting schools and colleges to sponsor aspiring business owners. Financial assistance is vital, but so is guidance. I want to provide mentorship and support, helping these individuals navigate their paths and avoid the pitfalls that can derail their dreams. By investing in their potential, I aim to help them cultivate the skills and resilience needed to turn their visions into reality.
While I can’t control how people will remember me after I’m gone—there will always be those who may not appreciate my efforts—I hope to leave behind a legacy of compassion and support. I want to be seen as someone who genuinely cared for others and sought to uplift those in need. I want my story to reflect the triumph of the underdogs—the hard workers juggling multiple jobs, the dedicated parents striving to provide for their families, all while pursuing their dreams.
In the spirit of Houston, Texas, I want to champion the motto of “BE SOMEONE.” I hope to be remembered as someone who inspired others to be the best versions of themselves and to recognize their worth. Ultimately, my legacy will be a testament to the belief that with determination, support, and hard work, anyone can rise to meet their aspirations and become a success story.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
My name is Robert Rush and with my company Euphoria Flowers, my journey into the floral industry began during one of the most challenging times in recent history: the pandemic. With uncertainty and many aspects of life on hold, I found myself reflecting on my passions and aspirations. I had always loved flowers and their ability to brighten someone’s day, but turning that passion into a business felt daunting, especially in such turbulent times. However, I decided to take the leap and start my floral business from scratch.
Building my business from the ground up was not easy. Initially, I struggled to attract customers, largely because my network was small, and I was just starting out. I remember those early days filled with uncertainty, but I persevered. After a couple of orders, word began to spread. People appreciated the personal touch and creativity I brought to their floral arrangements. Slowly but surely, word of mouth started to work in my favor, and I began to see a steady influx of orders.
Everything changed for the better when my business partner, Ryan, entered my life. Ryan had prior experience in business ownership and brought a wealth of knowledge to the table, particularly in the analytical aspects of running a business. His expertise complemented my creative vision perfectly. Together, we harnessed our strengths, leading to increased visibility and remarkable growth for our company.
Today, we are proud to offer a full-service floral studio specializing in everything from corporate events and weddings to funerals, parties, and everyday orders. One of the core philosophies that set us apart from other florists is our commitment to working with our clients’ budgets and ensuring we meet their expectations. We understand that not everyone has an endless budget for flowers, and we believe that beautiful arrangements should be accessible to everyone. No budget is too small when we collaborate with our clients to bring their visions to life. We love what we do and our passion for design, art and flowers makes us challenge ourselves every day to be a better version of ourselves.
What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?
As a flower shop owner, I’ve discovered that the most effective strategy for growing my clientele isn’t just about beautiful arrangements or competitive pricing—it’s about empathy. My journey in this industry has taught me that understanding and connecting with people from all walks of life is essential, especially during their most significant moments, whether joyful or sorrowful.
One of the most profound experiences I’ve had was helping a family plan the floral arrangements for a funeral. The loss of a loved one can be overwhelming, and often, the family is thrust into a whirlwind of emotions while trying to navigate the logistics of a funeral. I remember a particular family who came into the shop, visibly distraught and unsure of how to proceed. They were facing the immense pressure of honoring their loved one’s memory while grappling with their grief.
In that moment, I realized that my role was more than just providing flowers; it was about offering a comforting presence. I took the time to listen to their stories, to understand who their loved one was, and what kind of arrangements would best reflect their memories. It was essential for me to approach the situation with compassion and patience, guiding them through the various options without overwhelming them. By showing genuine care and empathy, I was able to help them create a beautiful tribute that honored their loved one while also alleviating some of the burdens they were carrying.
This experience reinforced my belief that empathy is key in this business. When clients feel heard and understood, they are more likely to return and recommend my services to others. It’s not just about selling flowers; it’s about building relationships based on trust and compassion.
On the other end of the spectrum are joyful occasions, like weddings, where emotions can also run high. Couples are often excited but also stressed, trying to coordinate countless details. In these moments, I strive to be a steady guide, helping them navigate their emotions while turning their floral dreams into reality. I remember working with a bride who was initially overwhelmed by the choices available to her. By taking the time to ask about her vision and what elements were most important to her, I was able to help her find clarity amid the chaos. We collaborated closely, and seeing her face light up as we pieced together the perfect arrangements was one of the most rewarding moments of my career.
Empathy allows me to connect deeply with my clients, regardless of the occasion. It builds a rapport that goes beyond a simple transaction; it fosters a community. When people see that I genuinely care about their experiences—whether they’re celebrating a milestone or mourning a loss—they become more than just customers; they become part of a family.
Word of mouth has been a powerful tool for my business’s growth. When clients leave my shop feeling understood and supported, they naturally share their positive experiences with friends and family. This organic growth has been invaluable. As I cultivate these relationships, I’m reminded that each arrangement I create is a reflection of the trust they place in me.
Ultimately, what I want potential clients to know is that when they choose my flower shop, they are choosing more than just a vendor—they are choosing a partner who will walk alongside them during life’s most significant moments. My commitment to empathy is what sets my business apart and has become the cornerstone of my success. By truly connecting with people, I’ve been able to build a clientele that values compassion as much as craftsmanship, creating a community centered around shared experiences and heartfelt connections.
Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?
Throughout my entrepreneurial journey, I’ve encountered a wealth of resources that have profoundly influenced my management style and philosophical approach to business. Among them, the teachings of philosophers and writers like Florence Scovell Shinn, Nevil Goddard, Marcus Aurelius, and Plato have been particularly impactful. Their insights have not only shaped my thinking but have also helped me cultivate a resilient mindset rooted in the principles of the law of attraction, metaphysics, and manifestation.
One of the first books that left a lasting impression on me was Florence Scovell Shinn’s The Game of Life and How to Play It. In her writing, Shinn emphasizes the importance of positive thinking and self-affirmation. Her ideas resonated deeply with me, especially the concept that our thoughts shape our reality. This principle became a cornerstone of my entrepreneurial philosophy; I learned to approach challenges with a mindset of abundance and possibility rather than fear and limitation. Her teachings encouraged me to visualize success, not just in my business but in every aspect of my life.
Similarly, Nevil Goddard’s works expanded my understanding of manifestation. His belief that imagination is a powerful tool for creating our reality transformed the way I approach my goals. I started to incorporate visualization techniques into my daily routine, envisioning not only my business flourishing but also the positive impact it could have on my clients and community. This practice instilled a sense of purpose and clarity in my decision-making, guiding me through both the highs and lows of entrepreneurship.
Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations provided me with timeless wisdom on resilience and self-discipline. His reflections on Stoicism taught me the value of focusing on what I can control and letting go of what I cannot. In the unpredictable world of business, this perspective became invaluable. It reminded me to maintain a steady course even when faced with adversity, fostering a sense of calm and purpose amid chaos.
Plato’s philosophy also played a significant role in shaping my thinking. His emphasis on the pursuit of truth and the importance of dialogue encouraged me to create an open environment within my team, where ideas could flow freely. I began to prioritize open communication and collaboration, recognizing that the best solutions often arise from diverse perspectives. This approach not only strengthened my team but also cultivated a culture of trust and creativity.
Beyond these influential figures, the overarching belief in the law of attraction has been a guiding principle in my entrepreneurial journey. I’ve come to understand that the energy we project into the world attracts similar energy back to us. By embodying positivity and gratitude, I have been able to attract like-minded clients and collaborators who share my vision and values. This has been essential in fostering relationships built on mutual respect and support.
As I continue to grow my business, I remain committed to integrating these teachings into my daily practices. They remind me that entrepreneurship is not just about profits and metrics; it’s also about personal growth and the positive impact we can make in the lives of others. By combining the wisdom of these philosophers with the principles of manifestation and metaphysics, I’ve cultivated a holistic approach to business that emphasizes empathy, resilience, and collaboration.
In sharing this journey, I hope to inspire others to explore the wealth of knowledge available through these resources. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, the insights of these thinkers can provide valuable guidance as you navigate your own path. Embracing these philosophies has not only transformed my business but has also deepened my understanding of the interconnectedness of our thoughts, actions, and the world around us.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://euphoriaflowers.org/
- Instagram: EuphoriaFlowersHTX
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EuphoriaFlowersHTX/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-rush-b7b099328/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/euphoria-flowers-houston?uid=Ncifj2QxagCNhWXQqRqZ4g&utm_campaign=www_business_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct)
