Conducting Business in Hawaii: The "Spirit of Aloha" and "Malama"

 Most of you may not understand the meaning of the "Spirit of Aloha" or the "Malama" when applying it to business so let me give you a little insight into how most of us conduct business in HAWAII when applying these two basic principles. In plain language the "Spirit of Aloha" means a 'sense of caring and kindness to those around me' and "Malama" means stewardship and when applying both of those in business we take care and give of ourselves with unselfishness in regards to human assets.

I consistantly write about the relationships I have with my clients, peers and even connecting with others here on Active Rain with emotion, sincerity and positivity. I was sitting here and thinking about how our states differ with our real estate laws and contracts and then it clicked!  In Hawaii we must conduct our business differently because our way of life is different here in Hawaii. Some just don't understand when it comes to getting even a little personal with our clients, our peers or any one else related in our industry.

"Malama" is personal. It is warm and inviting. It comes from the heart. It comes from the soul. It's a way of life. We give without keeping a mental bank of what we "should" get in return. We give of ourselves and help one another. We accept responsibility unconditionally. We protect.

 Granted, not everyone will conduct their business in the same manner  I do because whatever society we grew up in or values we have learned along our journey in life is how we will perform when conducting business. I came from the "old school" in Hawaii. I learned to care for, to pay forward to, and to honor and respect those around me. I carry myself this way in every day life and carry myself this way in business. I am as true to others as I am to myself.

The "Aloha State" is what our state was nicknamed. Admissions day was August 21. 1959 and this past Friday (third Friday of August is when it is celebrated) marked 48 years of Hawaii as the 50th state of the union. It was also the 125th Anniversary of Iolani Palace (picture courtesy of Honolulu Advertiser)

I give you my Spirit of Aloha and Malama.

So tell me. Do you conduct your business with Malama?

 

Click for:

<<Israel Kamakawiwo'ole - White Sandy Beach>>

 

Celeste "Sally" Cheeseman's Mililani Hawaii Real Estate Blog 2007

 
This post has been included in Hawaii Information Honolulu County, HI Information
Post is included in group: Realtors®
Post is included in group: The Art Of Marketing You
Post is included in group: Almost Anything Goes
Post is included in group: Posts to Localism
Post is included in group: POSITIVE ATTITUDE for the Weary Soul

35 Comments on Conducting Business in Hawaii: The "Spirit of Aloha" and "Malama"

I'm sure the way of life is differnt in Hawaii than other parts of the county.  But, then, not everyone has the good fortune to live in a constantly beautiful, comfortable, warm but not too warm climate where almost every building over 3 stories have a view of the ocean.

You are indeed fortunate and I believe the beauty of your surroundings contributes to your way of business.

08/19/2007 06:32 PM by Lenn Harley, Homefinders.com, MD & VA Real Estate


Robert:  Pure life, good life. I had to look that up because i'm not Spanish. Good relation and thanks for your input.

Lenn: Is that what it is? lol!  I do believe we're just laid back and a small close knit community. I'm just me...what can I say.  We actually run around in grass skirts and give flower leis to everyone we come in contact with :)

08/19/2007 06:42 PM by Celeste "SALLY" Cheeseman (RA), Hawaii Real Estate & Hawaii Relocation (Century 21 Liberty Homes -Mililani, Hawaii)


Sally--You spirit of Aloha is evident in your posts and your kind spirit shows throught to all who read your blog on a regular basis. I am certain that you are also a good steward of your business and friendships as your caring shines through in your writing. Thank you for your deeper explanation of the Hawaiian phrases.

08/19/2007 06:47 PM by Teri Eckholm, Realtor® Anoka County MN (Keller Williams Premier Realty)


Teri:  You just have a way with appreciative words I tell you. Thank you so much and I appreciate those who understand that I do business "personally".

08/19/2007 06:53 PM by Celeste "SALLY" Cheeseman (RA), Hawaii Real Estate & Hawaii Relocation (Century 21 Liberty Homes -Mililani, Hawaii)


I like that Sally. I think I would make a very good Hawaiin. It's all about sharing and caring no matter where we live. You certainly have both of these qualities. OK how much do I owe you?

08/19/2007 06:54 PM by Bryant Tutas-Tutas Towne Realty, Inc


BB: Uh....free....just like for you...lol! Darn....trying to prove a point. Some think business means dead door mat. Besides, I think you'd make for a good Hawaiian too...haha. I think it's the atmosphere...we get a little lethargic at times..hahha!

08/19/2007 06:57 PM by Celeste "SALLY" Cheeseman (RA), Hawaii Real Estate & Hawaii Relocation (Century 21 Liberty Homes -Mililani, Hawaii)


Sally - Pura Vida is native to Costa Rica, which  Steve Case says reminds him of Hawaii 40 years ago. You got it right with Pure Life, or Purified Life.

08/19/2007 07:00 PM by Robert Irvin (Green Seal Realty)


Robert:  I went back to the article...Costa Rica....sorry....same kind of atmosphere I would think.

08/19/2007 07:01 PM by Celeste "SALLY" Cheeseman (RA), Hawaii Real Estate & Hawaii Relocation (Century 21 Liberty Homes -Mililani, Hawaii)


Sally, beautiful post and for letting me see and understand a word I've never heard, Malama.  My "business" is VERY personal which allows us those wonderful connections we might otherwise miss; it's what I love so much about it.  Business in most cases is "just business." 

08/19/2007 08:26 PM by Carole Provenzale Owner, Feng Shui Long Island (Feng Shui Long Island)


Sally,  I conduct my business the same.  I think clients need the warm welcome and understanding.  I do not know how to NOT be that way.  Malama sounds like a wonderful way of life and I wish everyone was that way.  :)

08/19/2007 08:29 PM by Stephanie Edwards-Musa, Realtor ® The Woodlands, TX Real Estate (Prudential Gary Greene, Realtors ®)


Sally - YOU are the spirit of 'aloha' and 'malama' to all of us who read your posts.  I've been fortunate to have been to Hawaii twice, and have experienced first-hand that special spirit that Hawaiians exemplify, and it is truly lovely.

Another beautiful glimpse into Hawaiian ways - thanks for sharing!
Ann 

08/19/2007 08:33 PM by Portsmouth NH Real Estate ~ Ann Cummings (RE/MAX Coast to Coast - Portsmouth New Hampshire)


Sally, conducting business with respect and caring for others is the way that everyone should conduct themselves. We should always treat others the way we would want to be treated ourselves.  If we do this then business will take care of its self.

08/19/2007 09:03 PM by George Souto (McCue Mortgage Co.)


Sally-Do you mean everyone doesn't give the spirit of Aloha like we do here in Hawaii?  I think they probably do things their own way but having travelled the world, the spirit of Ohana and Malama is alive, well and can be seen daily on this island paradise.  Great post!

08/19/2007 09:47 PM by 1SG (Ret) David J. Kucic Hawaii Relocation/VA Expert (Tropic Lightning Real Estate)


48 years..WOW I'll bet they are already planning for 50!!

We are pretty laid back here in NH...and I am known as the "warm and fuzzy " agent in the office!

08/19/2007 10:28 PM by Joan Mirantz- Concord New Hampshire Realtor (Keeler Family Realtors)


Missy: And to you too!

Carole: You back?  Hope you had a nice vacation!

Steph:  I know you do...would be nice if everyone did the same.

Ann: And you took it back to spread all over New Hampshire! :)

George:  I agree. I have gotten a few comments here and there about how they aren't touchy feely or it's a man thing or whatever. That's okay because the rest of us treat and are treated with respect, caring and kindness.

David:  Funny David. Do you see anywhere else where everyone hugs each other hello and goodbye and on the news they have leis on?  lol! I too have been around the world and this is 'home'.

Joan: Ha! I knew the rest of the "fuzzies" would come out to play on this post...  and a warm and fuzzy hug to you Joan!

08/19/2007 10:38 PM by Celeste "SALLY" Cheeseman (RA), Hawaii Real Estate & Hawaii Relocation (Century 21 Liberty Homes -Mililani, Hawaii)


Sally - Just reading this made me Want to go get a lei for everone I meet! So I could share the story of the Spirit of Aloha and Malama. Love that you are so open and honest!

08/20/2007 12:04 AM by Indianapolis Real Estate | Paula Henry (ReMax Excel)


Paula:  A lot of members are! I just kept wondering why there were some that kept insisting that professional and business mean dead doormats or something ...just reciting real estate and nothing else. Oh well. It's what keep the world balanced, right?

08/20/2007 12:13 AM by Celeste "SALLY" Cheeseman (RA), Hawaii Real Estate & Hawaii Relocation (Century 21 Liberty Homes -Mililani, Hawaii)


Hi lady, How are you this weekend? Been really busy today, trying to write just didn't happen today. I am very far behind in even my response writing on my last posts.

I have question. Do you think I have Malama? We all know you do! 

I will do my comments tomorrow, my eyes hurt, :-) and I still have get some contracts ready for tomorrow. All I want to do is sleep and I need them for 9:00am so I better get to it.

Night Night.

08/20/2007 12:24 AM by The Real Estate Text Book authored by William Johnson GRI CRS e-PRO (RE/MAX Associates)


William!  I figured you were real busy!

Oh, William...of course you have Malama! Big time! I presume all my buddies have it....or they most likely wouldn't be here commenting...huh?!

Night night buddie...long day tomorrow for me too.

08/20/2007 12:28 AM by Celeste "SALLY" Cheeseman (RA), Hawaii Real Estate & Hawaii Relocation (Century 21 Liberty Homes -Mililani, Hawaii)


I firmly believe that for me to be successful - I must concentrate on building the relationship and let the rest come as it may... and it does - great way to put this Sally - I love it

08/20/2007 01:51 AM by Central Oregon Real Estate | Thesa Chambers, Broker (RE/MAX Sunset Realty La Pine)


Thesa: Thanks for the support....you seem to always have time to support others and I appreciate it. That is what we need more of ...not only on AR...in the world!

08/20/2007 11:11 AM by Celeste "SALLY" Cheeseman (RA), Hawaii Real Estate & Hawaii Relocation (Century 21 Liberty Homes -Mililani, Hawaii)


Sally- We may have different names for these qualities but they are certainly standards that we all should adhere to in our business.  We not only must have knowledge about our business but we also must show our clients that we care about them and understand their needs

08/20/2007 12:04 PM by Manhattan Beach CA/ e-PRO..... Kaye Thomas... (Real Estate West)


Kaye: The ones that are coming here to comment are most likely the ones who already "got it"....

08/20/2007 12:10 PM by Celeste "SALLY" Cheeseman (RA), Hawaii Real Estate & Hawaii Relocation (Century 21 Liberty Homes -Mililani, Hawaii)


Sally - I always try to conduct business with Malama!!  What a great theory in life...   You are so warm and welcoming!  Do you ever have a BAD DAY???

08/20/2007 03:14 PM by Real Estate Specialist | Brandon, FL | Susie Roscoe (Signature Realty Associates)


Something we all "should" do. I like to think we do but.....I will revisit that. Great post! As always.

08/20/2007 04:20 PM by Christopher Walker Hemet CA Real Estate (Mission Grove Realty - Homes, land and investment property.)


Susie:  That's right Susie!  I love theories like this...and of course I have my "bad" days...writing is what keeps me on an even level with life...ha!

Chris: Yeah...there goes that "should" word...key word...key work....key word....Hey, not eveyone here lives by this here either....so all the ones that do need to come live here..how's that?

08/20/2007 04:25 PM by Celeste "SALLY" Cheeseman (RA), Hawaii Real Estate & Hawaii Relocation (Century 21 Liberty Homes -Mililani, Hawaii)


Here in Lancaster the laid-back country feel is going away by degrees, as fast-paced city folk relocated here.  Everybody sees it happening.  Is there any of that happening there?

08/20/2007 05:01 PM by Jeff Geoghan MBA, - Lancaster PA Real Estate Expert (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.)


We are the 50th State because they always save the best for last.

08/20/2007 07:17 PM by Randy L. Prothero - Hawaii REALTOR® (Century 21 Liberty Homes)


Jeff: There are the Waikiki people...touristy spots...but the rest of residential folks like the way our island life is. The only thing I see us faster paced with is our contract lol!

Randy:  Oh...I agree with that!

08/20/2007 07:43 PM by Celeste "SALLY" Cheeseman (RA), Hawaii Real Estate & Hawaii Relocation (Century 21 Liberty Homes -Mililani, Hawaii)


That's good.  Does your office work with retirees from the mainland much?

08/20/2007 11:37 PM by Jeff Geoghan MBA, - Lancaster PA Real Estate Expert (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.)


Jeff:  It's not just retirees although a lot of military who are retiring decide they want to stay here. A lot of the "retirees" who just want to come to Hawaii for the 'cold' months invest in a condotel (Waikiki). Central Oahu is laid back....suburban you might call it although on a very small level.

08/20/2007 11:49 PM by Celeste "SALLY" Cheeseman (RA), Hawaii Real Estate & Hawaii Relocation (Century 21 Liberty Homes -Mililani, Hawaii)


Sounds like a lot of the older way of living is still happening.

08/22/2007 04:24 PM by Jeff Geoghan MBA, - Lancaster PA Real Estate Expert (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.)


I think a lot of it has to do with Native Hawaiians fighting to keep the land, environment and culture in a positive light.

08/22/2007 04:26 PM by Celeste "SALLY" Cheeseman (RA), Hawaii Real Estate & Hawaii Relocation (Century 21 Liberty Homes -Mililani, Hawaii)


Leave a response…

Name:
Notify me of new comments:
Comment:
What does the graphic say?
 
Real Estate Agent: Celeste "SALLY" Cheeseman (RA),  Hawaii Real Estate & Hawaii Relocation (Century 21 Liberty Homes -Mililani, Hawaii)
Celeste "SALLY" Cheeseman (RA), Hawaii Real Estate & Hawaii Relocation
Mililani, HI
More about me…
Century 21 Liberty Homes -Mililani, Hawaii

Office Phone: (808) 625-1776
Cell Phone: (808) 375-1404
Email Me
Hawaii Relocation, Hawaii Military Relocation, Mililani Real Estate, Hawaii Job Transfer? Honolulu County Relocation? Just know you are in good hands and reading my blog will give you the human side of this Real Estate Industry Professional. It's all about YOUR needs. Google PageRank 
		Checker - Page Rank Calculator

Links

Tags (Tag Cloud)

Archives

RSS 2.0 Feed for this blog
ATOM 1.0 Feed for this blog

Find HI real estate agents and Mililani real estate here on ActiveRain.
Disclaimer: ActiveRain Corp. does not necessarily endorse the real estate agents, loan officers and brokers listed on this site. These real estate profiles, blogs and blog entries are provided here as a courtesy to our visitors to help them make an informed decision when buying or selling a house. ActiveRain Corp. takes no responsibility for the content in these profiles, that are written by the members of this community.
© 2007 ActiveRain Corp. All Rights Reserved