Today, I found myself on the patio at Beyond Bread, embarking on a project I’ve been planning for years: photographing every item on their menu. My lunch choice was the Avi Avo, a delicious combination of creamy avocado and balanced flavors. Normally, I’d seek out a quiet corner, but it was a chilly day, and there were only two tables basking in sunlight. For whatever reason—fate, alignment of the stars, or a little nudge from the universe—I chose a table closer to others than I typically would.
As I enjoyed my meal, I couldn’t help but overhear a couple at the next table. They were discussing their home in Washington, which had been sitting on the market far longer than they’d hoped. Their conversation drew me in, not intentionally, but because of my own background in real estate. Although I typically avoid involving myself in situations like this, especially when it’s outside my market, something compelled me to lean over and say, “Excuse me for interrupting…”
What followed was a wonderful exchange, touching on real estate, human behavior, and much more. The advice I shared with them is something I often recommend to clients in similar situations: if a property isn’t selling, reduce the price by 1% each week until it finds its buyer—or until you reach a price where you’re no longer comfortable selling. The key, I explained, is that when the price approaches the value buyers perceive, fear of loss outweighs the desire to wait for a better deal. It’s human nature—people are more motivated by the fear of missing out than by the hope of saving a bit more.
Steve, the husband, was particularly engaging. A financial advisor by trade, he immediately connected with this idea. In his own business, he’s seen how human nature drives decision-making, and the concept of loss aversion resonated deeply with him. The phrasing struck a chord with both of them: Fear of loss is a greater motivator than the opportunity to gain.
Meeting Nancy Juetten: A Lesson in Serendipity
The conversation didn’t stop with real estate or financial principles. Nancy Juetten, Steve’s wife, introduced herself as an author, blogger, and podcast consultant. Barely a week into my commitment to blogging every day, here I was speaking with someone who had built her career on storytelling and communication.
Nancy has published three books and runs a successful blog, getknowngetpaid.com where she helps entrepreneurs craft compelling messages and grow their visibility. Her current business equips professionals to confidently land podcast interviews and share their expertise with the world. Through her work, she teaches the power of storytelling, clarity, and authentic connection—tools that resonate deeply with me as I navigate my own blogging journey.
The serendipity of our meeting was undeniable. As we spoke about writing, creativity, and reaching audiences, Nancy offered valuable insights about consistency and the courage it takes to show up authentically. She and Steve both struck me as people deeply in tune with the art of connecting—whether through financial advising, storytelling, or simply sharing a meal on a sunny patio.
Conclusion
Reflecting on the day, I realized how much of life’s beauty comes from the unplanned. I arrived at Beyond Bread to kick off a personal project, yet I walked away with more than a photo of the Avi Avo. I left with a meaningful connection, an engaging conversation, and a reaffirmation of the power of showing up—both in life and in writing.
As Nancy and Steve reminded me, human nature shapes so much of what we do. Whether it’s pricing a home, crafting a story, or simply choosing the sunniest table on a chilly day, our decisions are often driven by the delicate balance of fear and opportunity. Sometimes, leaning into that balance—starting a conversation or making an adjustment—can lead to outcomes more rewarding than we ever imagined
Steve, the husband, was particularly engaging. A financial advisor by trade, he immediately connected with this idea. In his own business, he’s seen how human nature drives decision-making, and the concept of loss aversion resonated deeply with him. The phrasing struck a chord with both of them: Fear of loss is a greater motivator than the opportunity to gain.