Proposal Writing Insights from a Colorado Tree Hunt
- Ideas at Dawn
- Jun 9
- 1 min read

Every year, my family ventures into the Colorado mountains for one of our favorite traditions: hunting for a Christmas tree.
It’s cold, messy, and filled with laughter, snowball fights, and spirited debates about which tree is “the one.” At first glance, most trees look good…until you notice what’s off—too short, too bare, or awkwardly shaped.
Eventually, we find the right tree—not perfect, but full of character.
Why It Felt Like Proposal Work
That search felt so familiar. It mirrors the process of shaping a proposal narrative. You start with high energy and endless possibilities, then sort through various elements, rework messy sections, and rethink the structure.
Somewhere along the way, you discover it: the narrative that truly fits the client, your team, and the request.
Three Proposal Writing Lessons from the Mountains
Be patient with the process. Strong proposals aren’t rushed; they evolve.
See past imperfections. Every team and every story has rough edges. Don’t wait for “perfect”—build something authentic and focused on the client.
Trust your eye—and your team. Whether you're hunting for trees or writing proposals, teamwork and trust make the process smoother (and a lot more enjoyable).
Let’s Keep the Story Going
I’d love to hear your “tree moments”—those times when something personal provided you clarity at work. DM me or share your story and tag @IdeasAtDawn.
Storytelling isn’t just a part of our proposals; it’s how we connect, grow, and lead.
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