Happy New Year, everyone!
There’s no denying that 2021 was another challenging year for most of us. It seems that every time we turn around, a new variant pops up. Sometimes it feels like face masks will be with us forever.
However, there’s one time-tested method of getting through tough times that can work for everyone, if we let it: reflecting on our blessings and maintaining an attitude of gratitude.
It also helps to recognize that even in the midst of bad news, there are always good things happening around us. Look for it, and you’ll find it. A lot of it.
Look for the Helpers (or Better Yet, Be One!)
Mr. Rogers once told his young viewers, “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.”
This year, I was honored to work alongside many of those helpers as I logged 134 volunteer hours for various organizations and donated over $100,000 to aid our military heroes, junior achievers, research into juvenile diabetes and ovarian cancer, and to worthwhile charities like Springs Rescue Mission, Mary’s Home, and Stable Strides.
The World Kept Turning, and Real Estate Kept Moving
At times in 2021, it felt like our world was grinding to a halt. But the truth is, the planet continued to spin, and humans have found ways to move forward in spite of limitations.
For example, people continued to buy and sell homes in 2021. My team was privileged to help 29 clients successfully sell their homes, ranging in price from $421,000 to $2,125,000, and to assist 53 buyers in closing on new homes that they love.
Our sales volume for 2021 was $45,350,719, with ten homes under contract prior to December 31st.
Our team grew a tad larger, too, as Shannon got her license, and we brought on a new face in Kellie.
Heather is still keeping me on track, as she has for the last seven years.
On the Homefront
On a more personal note, I’m immensely grateful that in 2021:
– We welcomed a precious new granddaughter, Ellie!
– My big sister successfully completed cancer treatment.
– Our son Jack bought his first house near Boston with his fiancée.
– Our daughter Sarah was offered her dream job at Google.
– Stephen, his lovely wife, and the kiddos were able to visit us in person!
– Our youngest, Hannah, graduated as a double major from CSU and started her first job in Human Resources at a five-star hotel.
A Suggestion and a Guarantee
If you haven’t done so already, I urge you to reflect on the wonderful things you gained in 2021. Did you learn something new? Finally clean out that closet? Buy something that brings you joy? Adopt a pet? Deepen a relationship? Gain a family member?
Look for the good. I guarantee you’ll find it.
