Ending the Year Right
It’s the end of the year scramble; only a few more days to finish final projects and complete 2018 planning. But, as you wind down for the year, we want to remind you to take time to do one more thing: celebrate.
Our clients, our partners, our colleagues and friends, work hard throughout the year and give their best to their work. We know that; we’re proud of that. Now, it’s time to reflect.
Celebrate your business
“Learning to celebrate success is a key component of learning how to win in the market.” – Douglas Conant, business leader, retired CEO of Campbell’s Soup Company
Instead of focusing on what you did not do in 2017, what needs to be done next year, or what your competitors have up their sleeves, instead, look intentionally for what you did accomplish. The adage says to learn from your mistakes, but you can learn from your successes, too.
Take a look at the numbers. Did you meet your 2017 goals? Did you increase headcount? Expand to new markets? Launch a new product or service? Revamp your approach to attracting new clients? Enhance client service and existing relationships? Redefine your brand?
If you did any of those things, pause … and congratulate yourself. What else did you do in 2017 that you and your colleagues can step back and say, “Wow, that was fantastic!”?
Celebrate your people
“Celebrate what you want to see more of.” – Tom Peters, writer on business management practices
While you’re congratulating yourself, think about the people that helped make 2017 a great year for your company. All businesses rely on the power of the people. Send a colleague or two a note to let them know that you noticed the work they put in during the year and the contribution it made to the business as a whole.
This is especially important for leaders. Recognizing your team collectively is a necessary, regular practice for great leadership, but individual praise goes a long way for relationships, and retention.
Celebrate your future
“I think it's important to celebrate your successes. It's important to feel happy about them, but it's equally important to look forward to the next big move.” – Chanda Kochhar, banking leader in India, CEO of ICICI Bank
Look towards 2018 and the future with this celebratory mindset. Look forward with great expectancy to what’s to come in your industry and your business. Set goals for the year ahead, and make sure they are S.M.A.R.T (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound) to make it easy to reflect upon them, and celebrate again—same time next year.
From our team to yours, congratulations on all of your successes in 2017. We look forward to seeing what great things you accomplish in 2018!