Our year started with an unforgettable adventure at Discovery Cove in Orlando, FL. From swimming with dolphins to sharing special moments as a family, it was a day filled with laughter, wonder, and a few lessons along the way.

Diving into New Experiences

One of the highlights of our visit was participating in the Swim with Dolphins experience. As we waded into the crystal-clear water, the excitement on Lily’s face was priceless. She had the opportunity to glide through the water, holding on as the dolphin guided her with grace. It was a beautiful reminder of the joy that comes from trying something new.

In life—and in business—stepping into something unfamiliar can feel intimidating at first. But just like Lily’s initial nervousness that turned into pure joy, new experiences often lead to growth, learning, and unforgettable memories.

Trusting the Process and the Team

Swimming with dolphins requires trust—trust in the trainers, trust in the dolphins, and trust in ourselves. As we followed the trainer’s instructions, Lily quickly learned that working with the dolphin, rather than trying to control it, made the experience smooth and magical.

It’s a valuable lesson about teamwork: when you trust the people around you and communicate clearly, incredible things can happen. Whether you’re collaborating on a project or working toward a shared goal, success often comes from listening, adapting, and working together.

The Power of Connection

One of the sweetest moments was when Lily received a dolphin kiss—a quick, playful gesture that sparked pure joy. It reminded me how important connection is, whether with people or animals. Even the smallest gestures, when filled with genuine care, can create lasting memories.

In both personal and professional relationships, building real connections—listening, engaging, and showing appreciation—can strengthen bonds and create deeper, more meaningful experiences.

Embracing the Moment

What made the day truly special was sharing it together as a family. Kayla, Lily, and I spent the day fully immersed in the experience, without distractions. It was a reminder of how valuable it is to be present—to soak in the smiles, laughter, and wonder of the moment.

Whether in business or life, sometimes the best thing we can do is put down the to-do list, step away from the hustle, and fully embrace the experience in front of us.

Conclusion

Our day at Discovery Cove was more than just a fun outing—it was a collection of lessons wrapped in joy, adventure, and togetherness. From the thrill of the unknown to the power of teamwork and the joy of connection, we came away with memories we’ll cherish forever.

As we head into the new year, I hope we all remember to dive into new experiences, trust those around us, and fully embrace every moment—because sometimes, the best lessons come from simply making a splash. 💙🐬

WRITTEN BY

David Behney, Founder & CEO

David Behney is the Founder and CEO of Behney Management Strategies, where he helps small businesses achieve their big goals through expert C-suite consulting. With a background in fractional CFO services, David now provides strategic guidance across finance, operations, marketing, and technology to businesses with $1M–$30M in revenue. Passionate about driving growth and sustainability, he partners with business leaders to build strong foundations and navigate challenges. Connect with David to take your business to the next level.