Before traveling to Costa Rica, I thought I had a pretty solid understanding of how business worked. Coming from the U.S., I was used to fast-paced environments, packed schedules, and the idea that productivity is measured by how much you can get done as quickly as possible. After spending time in Costa Rica, I realized there are very different, and equally valuable, ways to approach business and professional relationships.
One of the biggest differences I noticed was workplace culture. In the U.S., business interactions often feel transactional and time-driven. In Costa Rica, relationships come first. During our company visits and lectures, it was clear that trust and personal connection were prioritized over rushing decisions. Conversations were more relaxed, communication was thoughtful, and there was an overall sense that people genuinely cared about who they were working with, not just what they could gain from the interaction. The “pura vida” mindset really shows up in the workplace, emphasizing balance, respect, and quality of life.
One company that really stood out to me was Café Britt. Learning about their business model showed me how sustainability and strong relationships can be central to long-term success. Café Britt places a strong emphasis on ethical sourcing, environmental responsibility, and maintaining positive relationships with local coffee farmers. Instead of focusing solely on profit, they invest in their communities and prioritize quality and trust throughout their supply chain. This made me realize that successful businesses don’t just think about short-term results; they consider how their decisions affect people and the environment over time.
Staying with a host family helped me understand where these values come from. Sharing meals, talking about daily life, and spending time together showed me how important family and community are in Costa Rican culture. This experience helped me see why business relationships there often feel more personal; work is an extension of life, not something completely separate from it.
Spending time in Costa Rica also taught me to slow down and appreciate the world around me in a deeper way. One experience that stood out was hiking to a large waterfall, where I was able to fully take in the scenery and natural beauty around me. Moments like that made me realize how connected Costa Rica is to nature and how much value is placed on preserving it. Being immersed in these environments helped me feel more present and mindful, and it reminded me how easy it is to overlook the beauty around us in everyday life. This connection to nature reinforced the importance of balance, sustainability, and taking time to appreciate where we are.
As someone who hopes to work in the tech industry, this experience was especially meaningful. Tech is fast-moving and often stressful, especially in the U.S., but Costa Rica showed me that innovation doesn’t have to come at the expense of balance or human connection. Companies like Café Britt reminded me that even in industries driven by growth and competition, sustainability, ethics, and relationships still matter. These are values I want to carry into my future career in tech.
Overall, my time in Costa Rica shifted my perspective on success in business. Going forward, I want to apply these lessons by focusing on relationship-building, communicating with cultural awareness, and valuing balance alongside ambition. This experience didn’t just change how I view international business; it changed how I envision my future career.
