As 2024 approaches, we reflect on important lessons learned as an organization throughout 2023. As we gear up for the new year, there are 5 takeaways we believe have been most impactful.
SPREAD KINDNESS
Ralph Waldo Emerson said it best: “You cannot do kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late.”
I learned a tough lesson the other day about being kind. Before I start, I must say that I pride myself on being kind to others. Previously, I was a waitress and learned how important it is to treat people, both when serving and when being the customer. The extra thank you or accolade for excellent service can go a long way. The friendly service person who listens, and who wants to make the experience just right, is highly appreciated. I also was a teacher. I could go on and on about acts of kindness to those who “beat to their own drum, those that struggled with reading or math, those that were not quite “mainstream”. Kindness allowed for comfort and helped with confidence. However, I failed with the act of kindness. I was rushed and in my own world. I was trying to get into a door that is usually opened and of course, I was on a call. I pulled at the door a couple of times to realize it was locked. As I was turning around, a woman from inside kindly came over and opened the door and while I was talking, I breezed by, giving her a “smirk”, but not an actual thank you. How rude and how unkind. She noticed my abrupt behavior and called me out by telling another person. That stung, but it also made me aware that even the smallest acts of kindness and appreciation NEED to be given and NEED to be recognized.
self-love is a superpower
Practicing self-love is immensely important as it enables us to have a deep sense of emotional and physical well-being. Embracing self-love allows us to foster a positive relationship with ourselves, for overall well-being, health, and happiness. It is not just about looking in the mirror and telling yourself you are beautiful, smart, and kind. Self-love is respecting yourself enough to make time to take care of yourself so you can be the best you.
Over the years and as I have grown to be wiser, I have learned to provide self-love in order to give more to those who need me. Taking the time to do you, whether through movement, meditation, reading, writing, or a hobby each day, tells yourself I am the first priority. Taking small steps to set aside time for yourself each day will start the foundation for healthy habits.
manifest that sh*t
“Manifestation is bringing the outcomes you desire into reality. Manifestation happens when you combine strong intentions (feelings and beliefs) with sufficient action to make a desired outcome real” – Dr. Tara Swart.
Manifesting your desires, goals, and dreams is a powerful practice that can foster a positive outlook and mindset. This drives you towards personal growth and prosperity in your endeavors turning your dreams into reality. Remember that learning how to manifest is a practice, just like yoga, learning a language, or playing an instrument. You can’t just say you want something; you have to believe what you want ALREADY happened. If you have fear or if you say and believe that something won’t happen, then you are not in the belief of manifestation. Yet, when you gain an understanding of manifestation, your mind and beliefs expand, which allows for endless possibilities.
POWER OF A HANDWRITTEN NOTE
Writing thank-you notes isn’t just about good manners and social obligations. The practice of writing thank-you notes is incredibly powerful. It positively impacts both your personal and professional life, as well as the life of your recipient.
I have practiced writing thank you notes since I was a kid and have implemented this as a professional. We have discussed the importance of a handwritten note over the last 15 years and have actually received calls, emails and other communications thanking us for the thank you we have sent!
evolve
To evolve personally and professionally, it is important to set goals for yourself. This is something we have truly focused on in 2023. Organize your goals and establish clear expectations for yourself. We should be constantly evolving—learning, experimenting, exploring, and challenging ourselves. Staying stagnant leads to boredom. I am personally not ready to be bored!
