Reflecting On Your 2011 Harvest

There will come a moment... perhaps it will be after a memorable evening with family or friends. It could surface on one of those "laid back" days you have off from work in the next week. Or the moment may come as you prepare to ring in the new year. At some point, you will find yourself reflecting on what you "grew" in 2011. You might be tempted to evaluate it by deals closed, money made or big "wins." I invite you to look at what you accomplished in the past year a little differently. Consider your answers to some of these questions:

• What were 2-3 moments that took my breath away?
• What is one event or activity that I will always remember from this year because of the sense of peace, love or contentement I felt?
• Who are some of the people whose lives are better because of my efforts this year? (Note: Don't discount even the smallest act of kindness or generosity on your part)
• When I look back on 2011 in five years, what do I think will really have been significant about this year?
• What is one way I have improved myself professionally or personally this year? How is that benefiting me and/or others around me?

You may just be surprised to find that your harvest was bigger than you ever imagined.

How's Your Gratitude?

A friend showed me something interesting last week. They had purchased a used copy of the book I coauthored, Juggling Elephants. I had signed the book and also included an additional personal note on a small card. The most humorous part of the situation? The recipient had never opened the book-the binding was still tight. They had simply sold it once they received it.

Now, I'm not a vain person and the fact that they didn't read it does not concern me. But I do remember the individual who requested it and they made a big deal out of wanting the book and how they couldn't wait to read it. Maybe they got another copy and read it before they got mine. Let's go with that.

Unfortunately, I have probably been like this book recipient at times. I give weak accolades to someone or for something they have done, but don't take the time to show my gratitude. How could you show your gratitude to someone today-before they get the impression (correctly or wrongly) that you really don't value them-or what they do?

"The Trumpet Player Who Almost Wasn't"

This past week I had the privilege of hearing Chiz Rider. Chiz is an amazing trumpet player-and knows where to give credit for his amazing performances. During the performance (including making a trumpet out of a funnel and a garden hose) he praised his road team, his family, the audience and several others who had helped him achieve success. At one point I thought-"This guy wouldn't have made it anywhere without all that help." And neither would any of us.

As you go through your work day today and reflect on the skills you have, or as you smile because you knew just the right thing to say to your children or spouse, stop for a second and think about who taught you that skill. Who supported you when you didn't believe in yourself?

AND who do you need to thank today for helping you get to your current locale in life? This may be just the day they really need to hear that word of encouragement.