Our Blog: where do you stand?

What We're Thinking: Giving Thanks

By: Maggie Brandt | 11/22/2011

I just finished a fascinating book by Eric Weiner called The Geography of Bliss, which recounts the author's travels to Iceland, Qatar, Bhutan and seven other countries in search of the happiest place in the world. While each culture possesses a unique definition of what it means to be happy, one commonality appeared again and again - that we are infinitely happier when we recognize and celebrate our blessings than when we dwell on what we lack.

While we should all be counting our blessings on a daily basis, it always seems that November is the perfect time to adopt an attitude of gratitude. In celebration of this Thanksgiving holiday, I've asked our Standing team to take a few moments from their busy workdays to consider what they are most thankful for in their professional lives:

Christi Dixon: I'm incredibly thankful for the opportunity to learn and grow on the job. While I enjoy conferences, reading and webinars, I still learn the most from my teammates and colleagues. Thank you for all you do to share knowledge that makes us stronger as an organization!

Cathy Dunkin: I am most thankful for the smart, professional and generous people who surround me every day ... our team, our clients, mentors and friends throughout the community. 

Chris Uithoven: I am thankful for the people in my life who have guided me, coached me, and challenged me and for the experiences that taught me unforgettable lessons (and made great happy hour stories!)

Ashlyn Brewer: I am thankful for colleagues who bring challenging and exciting ideas to the table, whether it's a HeadStand (brainstorm) or just a conversation at the lunch table.

Beth Doriani: I am thankful that I work in an active learning culture where we are encouraged to devote time just to acquiring new skills. Thank you Standing for taking your employees' growth seriously!

Vicki Boutwell: I'm thankful for the mentors who have inspired me, and the bad bosses who have taught me more about how to be a good people and project manager by demonstrating what NOT to do over and over again. I am also thankful for the opportunity to work in a dynamic, collaborative environment where I can thrive on the energy and the crazy!

Anne Walker: I am thankful for coworkers who have my back when life gets rough.

Melissa Lackey: I'm most thankful for our clients, who enable us to make an impact, our talented, passionate and committed team that challenges me to be my best every day, and our culture that encourages collaboration, learning and personal growth.

As you can see from the responses above, we have plenty to be thankful for, and remembering these blessings helps us reenergize and appreciate the moments we experience each day.

Wishing you and yours a happy Thanksgiving! 

What are you most thankful for in your professional life?

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