Inspiration. It’s on our minds lately as we plan for Connect 2021: Thriving Together, our upcoming virtual event. We’re excited to kick off the new year with a gathering that uplifts, educates and connects us. It’s something leaders need now more than ever.
In that spirit of reflection and opportunity, we asked the Navigate Forward team two questions:
- Amid the pandemic, what makes you grateful?
- What are you looking forward to in the coming months?
We’ve shared a sampling of our responses below. We’d love to hear from you as well! Leave a comment on our LinkedIn page or share this story with your network.
We’re giving thanks for…
The simple things. “As hard as this year has been, I’m thankful for books and movies—the simple things about life that we kind of forget when we’re so busy. I feel I was on a hamster wheel for 30 years with never any time to do a crossword puzzle, a jigsaw puzzle, and I’ve done a lot of them this year! And loved them.”
Warm homes. “Every day I pass people who are living in tents. I’m grateful to have a warm bed, a warm room, a bathroom. I’m not taking it for granted.”
As hard as this year has been, I’m thankful for books and movies—the simple things about life that we kind of forget when we’re so busy.
Meaningful work. “With my family spread all over the country, I am thankful to have clients I am accountable to. It’s so meaningful and gratifying. Having something meaningful to do every single day has really kept me going.”
Healthcare heroes. “I’m thankful for all the healthcare workers out there and the amazing care they give us.”
The power of teams. “The positive affiliation of this team. Working with smart people that are committed to what they’re doing and making a difference. That’s been really important for me this year.”
People in our lives. “People are so valuable! My family is valuable. I look forward to being with them all, wherever they are.”
Caring communities. “I have been buoyed by a community where people have gone outside of themselves—coming together, organizing for food shelves and homeless shelters. It’s been amazing, gratifying and very fun to be part of.”
Humor. “I appreciate laughter.
Stability. “I’ve enjoyed being in a stable environment in an unstable time. After years away at school, I have enjoyed the time with family. I really cherish the space I’m in.”
I’m grateful for the opportunity to try to give back, with donations or volunteering or figuring out ways to help.
Giving back. “Personally, we haven’t suffered great loss; the pandemic has been a minor inconvenience for us so I’m grateful for that every day. I’m grateful for the opportunity to try to give back, with donations or volunteering or figuring out ways to help. I’m grateful I have the time.”
Health and flexibility. “I’m grateful for good health and for friends and coworkers who have become like family. I’m grateful to be in Arizona this year with friends, thanks to flexibility I might not otherwise have. I’m grateful for simple comforts.”
Grandkids and clients. “I’m getting to spend time with my granddaughter that I would never get under normal circumstances. And I’m with clients during a really pivotal time; I feel honored to be with our clients through this.”
Family and coworkers. “I’m very thankful for my family and everything they bring, and having the opportunity to work with this team at Navigate Forward. The hearts and minds of this group are so impressive.”
We’re looking forward to…
A vaccine. “Having a vaccine and being able to open up the world.”
Greater empathy. “I hope that we bring a greater empathy forward and that we don’t waste this crisis, that we learn a lot from it. As someone who likes to plan and have it all buttoned up, I hope I bring forward a realization that it’s OK if it’s a little messy and you don’t have it all figured out.”
I’ve been so impressed by the ingenuity, the flexibility and the great spirit of generosity I’ve seen. I hope that continues.
More freedom. “I’m ready for a new normal that allows us to be free again with travel, seeing friends and not feeling so trapped.”
Music. “I’m looking forward to live music.”
Being our whole selves. “Through the pandemic, we’ve gotten used to ‘less than perfect.’ I hope we take with us an appreciation for that, for allowing ourselves to just ‘be’ and embracing less than perfect.”
Safely dining out. “I look forward to eating in a restaurant.”
Creativity and generosity. “I’ve been so impressed by the ingenuity, the flexibility and the great spirit of generosity I’ve seen. People have had to solve problems creatively. I hope that continues.”
Helping others. “I’m hopeful we find meaningful ways to help those who’ve been most significantly impacted, those who’ve been most devastated by COVID-19 and its effects.”
Slowing down. “Being forced to slow down a little bit has been OK. I’d like to carry that forward in 2021 and remember the importance of quiet time.”
Hugs. “I’m looking forward to hugging people again. I’m anxious to see my grandkids.”
