Ahas & Appreciations to Close Out 2021

“In the end, though, maybe we must all give up trying to pay back the people in this world who sustain our lives. In the end, maybe it’s wisest to surrender before the miraculous scope of human generosity and to just keep saying thank you, forever and sincerely, for as long as we have voices.” 

— Elizabeth Gilbert

You know I'm no fan of "everything happens for a reason." Even "smile for what you had instead of crying over what you've lost" irks me.

I'm all for gratitude journals and graciousness, but when you're feeling lost and defeated, thankfulness is seldom at the top of the list. 

After the past two years, I think all of us could use a break from "character-building" experiences. Been there, been doing that, for a LONG time. 

And yet...

I am grateful for this conversation. That I am writing and you are reading.

That we are all asking better questions and thinking more deeply about our answers.

I am thankful for the new skills and knowledge I've had to gain as I've navigated new aspects of my business. I'm not sure I would have explored the creative avenues that brought my book and this blog to life had I been able to stick with more comfortable and familiar options.

I've missed my girls' weekends, client outings, and in-person team sessions, but I've been stunned at the beautiful comments that I've read in responses to these blogs. I've been amazed by the intimacy and trust my clients have been able to build in virtual team sessions. 

I'm not grateful that I've experienced heartache in the past, but I am humbled and enriched by the love and connection that has emerged since sharing that story more openly. I'm seeing how my leadership consulting work is bolder and more compassionate since merging my professional and private sources of wisdom.

We don't have to have a forced "attitude of gratitude" for hardships in life to be able to step back and marvel at the growth that has emerged in the midst (not necessarily because of) the struggles we've faced.

So for you, what "aha"s stand out for 2021? What insights, connections, new paths have you explored? What wisdom do you carry now that didn't exist a year ago?

For whom and what are you most appreciative? Who's had your back? Been a safe shoulder to cry on? Cheered you up on your worst days? Sat quietly with you when no words were needed?

If you're struggling to take stock of 2021, I encourage you to make your own list of "ahas and appreciations" from the last year. My guess is that you'll be astounded by what insights, relationships, and learning this year-like-none-other has created.

And as we turn the page, let's Dare to Thrive together in 2022...