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The end of the year provides a wonderful opportunity for everyone to reflect and offer thanks for those who support and challenge us throughout the year.

Certainly, the last couple of years have provided unique challenges and we look back and forward at what an impact we have seen in the new “virus environment” for business.

Rules and changes to the rules are prone to make you pull your hair out and the dramatic impact on how we interact with our customers and employees and even our neighbors can leave you reeling.

On the other hand, what a remarkable perspective we have gained on how we work and recreate – we remain strong amid both frustration and success. We certainly have learned about ourselves, our team, and our community.

My thoughts run to words of encouragement in the few lines of this article and thus suggestions for surviving and thriving.

1. Calculate – given the busy nature of what we do day in and day out – oftentimes we lose track of how the numbers have performed. In this challenging time, knowing what the impact of market changes have been and anticipating what they will be financially has never been more important. Find time to stay in touch with your year to year and month to month revenues, expenses, and opportunities in the marketplace.
2. Ambulate – still one of the best medicines for enjoying what and how we do things is to get up and outside if you can or to a walking track or simply move around with whatever means you have. Being outside is refreshing and virus free. Get up from your desk and walk around the hallway (your boss will understand). As the saying goes – be wise and exercise to the best of your abilities. In addition, rather than hanging out in the office, exhibit your leadership and encouragement for all to see by walking around and catching people doing something right. Now is the best time for positive feedback for your staff and community.
3. Meditate – get comfortable and prepare to sit still . Eliminate interruptions (cell phone off) and try to focus on your breathing – inhale and exhale – put other thoughts on hold. Discover a way to allow for space and time to truly relax within your meditation. Make it a healthy habit.
4. Communicate – practice listening to others. No – really. Slow down and give the person talking to you your time and focus. The return on this investment will be amazing!
5. Appreciate – can you find new ways to say thank you to the people around you? How about the cashier managing your grocery checkout or the wait staff delivering the meal to you? How about the valued team around you – have you focused on getting up the mountain and not spent time thanking those closest to you?

The challenges in our marketplace are not going away soon and while we face daily (if not hourly) challenges – we can embrace changes and build a new future.

Do not forget that the SCORE team can be a great sounding board for your thoughts and ideas for change. Even if your business has been an established enterprise, take the opportunity for advice and consultation as a free and confidential service to our business community and friends.

Best Wishes for the New Year!