Like the song says, this really is the most wonderful time of the year. Or at least it should be. But with the stress of trying to meet pre-holiday deadlines, end of year billing, plans for family and travel, it’s sometimes hard to see that “wonder” in all the boxes that need to be checked – or wrapped before we bring 2015 to a close. The pressure of having the “perfect” holiday is often one we bring upon ourselves. This year, take the opportunity to revel in the reasons that truly do make this season wonderful.
Celebrate Success.
We might not all be wishing for brown paper packages tied up in string, but the truth of the matter is that we often don’t take time to appreciate the beauty of simplicity. What with the rush of the holidays and the deadline that is the end of the year, we sometimes feel forced to cram the waning days of December with every possible project, meeting, or party. We being to take stock in those goals we set back in January and wonder where the time went. Now is not the time to look back on what we could have or should have. Instead, take stock in the successes of the past year. What went right? What did you do well? And how have you positioned yourself – or your business for future growth? Now THAT’S something to celebrate!
Pay it Forward.
Let’s be honest. There’s really no such thing as a self-made man. Or woman, for that matter. The reality is, no matter how long our track record, we’ve all been the beneficiary of some sort of boost along the way. Whether it was a loan from a friend or family member, an encouraging word from a mentor, or support from a loved one while we poured our heart and soul into a startup; success is very rarely a solo project. The odds are slim that we’ll ever get the opportunity to repay that favor. But once you’re no longer on the outside looking in, you’re now in position to help another entrepreneur, small business, or start-up get an infusion of cash, experience, or advice that could propel them to the next level. There would no greater way to honor the gift of your success than to serve as a catalyst for the next generation.
Be There.
It sounds more simple than it really is, but the distraction of smart phones and the non-stop opportunity to stay connected to work can sometimes keep us from realizing what’s really happening in the moment. Whether your name is on the door, or you work for the largest employer in town, it can be hard to shut down, unplug, and emerge from “business mode” even for the holidays. Take a moment to appreciate the people and the situation that you find yourself in. Most likely, those around you this time of year have had a direct influence on your success. Savor that togetherness. Commit to being in the hear and now. A simple agreement to leave the smartphones off – even for an evening – might do more to put you in the holiday spirit than a barrel full of egg nog.
All jokes aside, if you’ve had a successful year in business – and we hope you’ve had – there’s no better time to take stock in what worked. At The Dunstan Group, we believe that success is built on creating lasting impressional and delivering beyond expectations. As you’re re-tooling for the coming year, let’s talk about how branded merchandise and apparel from The Dunstan Group can help you further your brand’s story in 2016.
