• What Are You Missing?

    crowds in subway Do you have days that get filled with so many activities and projects that you feel as if you are rushing from one item to the next?  Maybe it is just our schedule…… although I think we all need reminded occasionally of the important things in our lives. It is rather easy to fill your day with appointments, projects, and errands that need to be done both in our personal and professional lives.  Then there are days that unexpected emergencies pop up and demand our attention as well…..finishing an extra project at work with a co-worker that has a deadline, taking a sick child to the Doctor, visiting a friend that needs encouragement, a flat tire on the vehicle you are driving, and so many more.

    During these busy days I want to encourage you to remember those things that you are truly passionate about and the people in your life who are important to you.  We miss out on so many blessings in our lives because we do not pause long enough to notice and appreciate them.  I am blessed beyond measure with a loving husband, two beautiful daughters, amazing friends, a great business that helps others, comfortable home, food to eat, clothes to wear, and so much more.  However, on those rushed days it is harder to relax and be content even with the many blessings in my life because the little issues seem bigger and more stressful.  On those days it is even more critical that I focus any extra energy I have on that which is truly valuable.  It is amazing how quickly a thankful heart can lift your spirits.

    My heart goes out to so many who are going through a tough season in their lives right now.  May you be encouraged and know that no matter what your current circumstance may be we all have something to be thankful for in our lives.  As we go into the weekend think about what you are thankful for and pause for a moment to focus on that instead of all the inconveniences of life.  Relax and enjoy an incredible weekend focusing on your passions and the people in your life.  What are your passions?  Who are you thankful in your life?

  • A Gift of Thanks!

    When is the last time you were given a thoughtful gift from the heart?  A gift that made a positive impact on your life?  I love Thanksgiving because it is a truly wonderful time of the year when people are thankful for all the blessings in their lives.  We need to make a real effort to continue the spirit of thankfulness every day of our lives.  Take time every day to make a meaningful contribution into a person’s life.  Everyone desires to be  appreciated and thoughtfulness for others goes a long way in both our personal and professional lives.  Giving “A Gift of Thanks” does not mean it has to be time consuming, expensive, or stressful.  Here are a few quick ways to express your “Gift of Thanks” and thoughtfulness to those you interact with in your day to day life:

    • Share a Smile – you may be the only smile someone encounters that day.  Make it a point to specifically smile at people you interact with throughout the day.  Smile when you are greeting people prior to a business event, shopping at the grocery store, waiting in line, welcoming them into your home, or making an introduction.
    • Give a Hug – greet a personal or professional contact with a hug.  Some people love hugs and others really need a hug.  This is true in both personal and business situations.  A hug  is more personal than a handshake and demonstrates an appreciation for the recipient.   Use discernment and common sense  because not everyone will be comfortable with a hug.  Reserve big bear hugs for close friends and family.
    • Note of Appreciation – a handwritten note of thanks, appreciation or thoughtfulness still means a lot.  Whether it is a client you haven’t heard from in a couple weeks, a friend who has recently lost a loved one, a family member on your mind and heart, a birthday, or reconnecting with a business contact.  Take the time to write a  note and touch the lives of those connected to you.
    • Call of Encouragement – use the phone as friendly reminder that you care.  If they do not answer please be courteous and leave a message.  New business owners are excited about their products or services, call to see how things are going for them, listen, and encourage them.  A Mom with a newborn may appreciate a call from a friend to share new milestones or to encourage her.  Some people love a long chit chat and others do not.  Practice ways to give a “word” of encouragement while respecting their time.
    • Cup of Coffee or Tea – share a cup of coffee or tea with a business contact, friend, or family member.  It is important to reconnect with someone you haven’t seen in awhile.  Make it a time to catch up and learn about what’s going on in their life and/or business.  It is not a time to sale or pry into deep problems but a few moments to help and encourage.

    Take time every day to give  “A Gift of Thanks” to someone connected to you both personally and professionally.  Reaching out to others will be a rewarding experience for everyone.  Let’s help each other remember the importance of showing appreciation and kindness to others as a daily routine.  Please share a story of how you were impacted or how you impacted another person by giving “A Gift of Thanks” with us.

    Wishing you a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!