Close Out the Year With Perspective

In Charles Dickens’ famous novel, A Christmas Carol, Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by the ghosts of Christmases Past, Present and Yet to Come. The experience is transformative for Scrooge and is a lesson for all about the value of perspective and balancing the elements of past, present and future.

Dickens’ timeless tale, first published in 1843, remains highly relevant today. As you transition from this year to the next, look at both your personal life and your business through the eyes of its wisdom.

 

 

Past

Take time to reflect, with gratitude, on the events of the past year. Regardless of what you’ve encountered – and whether you count your experiences as successes or failures – they’ve caused you to grow, learn, find new solutions, nurture new relationships, know yourself and your business more intimately, reinforce what works, and discover what you might need to change. Although some things may be best left in the past, we would have far less depth of being did we not carry some of it with us. It contributes to who we are and to the vision and activities that define our work.

Present

Celebrate the successes. No matter how you view this year as a whole, you’ve had successes. Congratulate yourself for what you’ve achieved and the forward progress you’ve made. Remember the importance of mindfulness – living in the moment and experiencing fully what life has to offer today. It’s easy to get caught up in a focus on the past or the future. But this moment is a gift and it’s what you have to work with. Make the most of it – not only by what you accomplish, but by experiencing the joy of living and the beauty that surrounds you.

Future

Plan for growth in 2020. Clarify your vision for yourself personally and for your business. Apply the lessons learned from the past and implement changes that may be needed. Keep an attitude of gratitude as you head into the New Year. Take time to move through the next year with eyes, heart and mind open to those NOW experiences that make life rich and real.

Thank you for your business and friendship, for the wisdom we’ve gained and the successes we’ve realized together this year. At this moment I celebrate, with a grateful heart, the incredible people and many blessings in my life. And I look forward to being part of your journey in 2020, the great experiences we’ll share, and growth we’ll achieve.

Happy Holidays to you and those you love, with wishes for a peaceful and prosperous New Year!

Written by

Rick Arthur is a CFO whose expertise is built on Financial Intelligence and 35 years in senior financial roles. Coupled with a CEO’s perspective and the experience of building his own $20 million company, he brings a unique depth of insight into business from the top down. Wired to get to know people, Rick works hand-in-hand with business owners of intentional, growth-oriented companies, solidifying relationships as a trusted advisor and confidant to his clients. He leverages his experience to help business owners gain traction and stay laser-focused on the company’s vision, cash flow, and profitability – all while creating big picture solutions for strategic planning, growth and sustainable success.