I spent most of my childhood in Taiwan learning the ancient art of the Chinese tea ritual from my grandparents. I visited different tea farms during the summer with my grandfather and searched local tea houses and shops for the perfect blend. These shared experiences became both a cherished staple of my childhood and a way for me to connect with my roots and family, even though we’re now nations apart.
Today, I live a constant hustle and bustle within the always-on, 24/7 Silicon Valley lifestyle. My morning tea ritual is my escape. It transports me back to those early days in Taiwan with my family. My favorite Taiwanese-imported tea leaves put me in the fields of Pinling, and the infusion process lulls me into a zenlike moment of serenity.
Performing this ritual in the hub of technology innovation is a personal reminder of the value shift our business has seen in “experience delivery” over the past few years. More than three-quarters of millennials report they would choose to spend money on a desirable experience rather than buy something desirable. It’s important for entrepreneurs and companies to dedicate thought and time to delivering products that both meet a need and nourish the soul.
The growing ‘experience economy.’
Experiences can be hard to commoditize — though not impossible. In fact, many technology companies and products are capitalizing on the growing “experience economy.”
- The Airbnb platform serves as a portal for users to conveniently (and often inexpensively) book travel accommodations, getting them one step closer…