I've been thinking about this time in our lives and how we can view the remaining year from a personal and business perspective. Three thoughts I'd like to share:

#1 BEHAVIOR MATTERS -

Nothing looks the way it did from even six months ago and so we must change and be flexible. Success in business comes from creativity, an ability to respond to the current situation and a desire to be affected by the positive, and minimize the negative. How you behave will help you finish the year strong or just pray it ends soon. I'm all about finding new ways to be successful in a different economy with a different mindset and I realize that my behavior matters in how I effect my future.

#2 BE SENSITIVE -

Clients, customers, friends, family, you, may be feeling the stress and the difficulty of this financial downturn our world faces. Be sensitive to others and their situations which you may or may not be privy to. Customers are changing their orders, delaying business, or regrouping. Do not worry. Remember that these times shall pass. In the meantime, don't take changes to your business personally, think creatively about what you're doing to build your business and make sure you're getting the support you need to see yourself through this time.

As you lead, lead with kindness, high standards, and strong boundaries.

In your personal life, take care of what is most important first: your family and those you love.

Keep in mind the holidays are not about gifts - but about remembering those you love and care for and showing that through acts of kindness and thoughtfulness. It's not the size of the gift, but the intention behind it.

#3 CHOOSE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE -

For you, that may be in a global way. By giving to others. Or honoring those you have lost more by your action than your mere grief.

But more importantly, it can be as simple yet profound as remembering the part you play in your success and letting go of what you can't control.

This is a time for reflection that can lead to action. There is an expression in Kinyarwandan: "Kora ibyiza buri munsi": do good every day. That includes to and for yourself.

In closing, I just wanted to remind you of who you are, what you bring to the world, and the part you play in your own success.

As my dearly departed Mother would say, "don't let the turkeys get you down" (post Thanksgiving but still relevant!) Whether we have the chance to talk or not, know you have everything you need to be successful - and that today we begin again.

My best to you always,

Vicky