November 1, 2021
Unexpected Gratitude
As we begin the season of thanksgiving, it’s a great time to reflect on what we are grateful for in our lives. While 2021 has continued to be a challenging year for many, some of these challenges have accelerated change that will benefit us in the years ahead. Some of the things I am thankful for include:
- My family who supports and loves me unconditionally (even when it’s hard, as I’m sure it is some days!)
- A growing, thriving company filled with talented, dedicated employees who impress me daily
- A leadership team who challenges our team members – and me – to do a little better every day
- Clients who have grown to be friends, in an industry in which we pour our hearts and souls into perpetually making better
Five years ago, if you would have asked me if I’d ever consider allowing all employees to work remotely on a permanent basis, I would have said no, for a multitude of reasons. The health pandemic changed this perspective for me. I am especially grateful that I stepped outside of my comfort zone and that our leadership team was supportive of making a permanent change to allow employees to work from home. The feedback we have received from our team members is incredible.
While continuing to be incredibly productive, our team members now have more flexibility, the opportunity to spend more time with family, and the ability to optimize daily schedules without the hassles of morning and evening commutes. It’s easy to get caught up in day-to-day busy-ness, but I hope that for our employees who choose to work from home that we’re able to provide more time for self and for family and friends.
As I reflect on 2021, I can’t think of a single better benefit we could offer our employees than the ability to work from home. This unexpected changed is one of the silver linings of the health pandemic and despite the reason we got here, I’m happy we did.
What are you grateful for? Throughout November, I’d love to hear what my family, my friends, and my colleagues are grateful for in 2021, or life in general. Anything unexpected? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments. Let’s fill our social channels with gratitude!
To those who are still experiencing challenges in 2021, know that you are not alone. My sincerest wish is that you will find the support you need, comfort from friends or family (or even people you don’t yet know), and that you are the recipient of good fortune in the days and years ahead. To any of my industry colleagues, if I can help you in any way, please let me know.
Bob Reardon