It’s that time of year again. The time when we all spend an extra minute to think about the past year and reflect on what we’ve learned and what we’ve accomplished. The time when we plan for a new year and decide what we’ll do different, how we will improve, how we will be and do better. The time when we discuss our upcoming new year’s resolutions with friends, colleagues and family, and when we are the most thankful for the successes and the most thoughtful about our failures.
It’s almost the end of 2013 – the most challenging, rewarding and amazing year I’ve had in my professional career. I’ve learned a lot about this business, and even more about myself. And for that, and so much more, I am truly thankful. So before I get wrapped up in the final countdown to Christmas, and enthralled in the chaos of the holidays, I wanted to take a quick minute to remember and share all that I am thankful for this year. So, here goes….today, and every day, I am thankful for:
My health, which regardless of a major lack of sleep, the affects of too much stress and the occasional overindulgence of happy hour celebrations, has remained strong.
My family, who despite the long work hours, preoccupied nights and weekends, and too much missed time together over the last year continue to unconditionally love and support me every single day.
My staff and their unwavering trust and loyalty in me, and the true passion and dedication for what we do every day for our clients.
My clients, who believe in us every day and who have helped me to finally understand what having a job that you truly love really means (and what a difference that makes in your life).
My friends, who supported me and cheered me on as I ventured out into the unknowns of small business ownership, despite suffering through countless conversations about how I got here, and why.
My colleagues, vendors and business partners who help make every day easier, brighter and more fun and who have shown me that respect, trust, hard work and dedication are what leads to success, and are what matters the most in business.
And finally, I am thankful for the confidence that all of these people helped bring to me this last year – which allowed me to take the biggest risk of my career, without wavering once over whether it was the right decision. Because, as it turns out, it was finally just time – and as Walt Disney once said – “The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.” This year, I began doing more than ever.
So here’s to many more years of happiness, success, valuable lessons learned and a life enriched through the willingness to take chances and reach for your dreams – Happy 2013 to you all. I can’t wait to see what 2014 brings all of us.
Cheers!
Lori
