A holiday message from Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®
As you read this, many will be in the throws of holiday preparedness – present wrapping, home decorating and meal planning, the traditions of the Christmas season. This year, things will certainly feel different. COVID-19 and the ensuing stay in place and social distancing orders will make this season seem odd, maybe a little less. At the Kruzan’s, our trees will be trimmed and our home will be decorated, but not quite as much as usual. Presents will be under our tree, but fewer than normal, not because of some austerity program or belt tightening, but rather a result of shipping them to their intended. Our meal plans will be for five, not the typical 25 we have yearly. We will miss those friends and family members who typically stop by and celebrate with us, but who won’t because of distancing and travel concerns. So is the reality of this season. Because of COVID and so many other happenings in 2020, New Years Eve will truly be a time to celebrate, if only I can stay up that late!
The Holidays are also a time for self-reflection and the hope for a better tomorrow. I few years ago, one of my consultants (I have a few) suggested that instead of asking someone “How are you?” I should ask, “What’s going Well?” While the gist of both questions may seem similar, the response and the framing required to answer, is completely different. In the case of the former, one typically hears a response, “fine,” whether or not that is a real answer. The response is almost a muscle-reflex. No thought required! But the latter question, “What’s going Well?” requires so much more thought. It requires us to stop, immediately count our blessings and find something, anything to feel positive about. Asking this simple question, empowers the asked to realize there is something positive in their life, right now, and to feel good about it, at least for the moment.
Asking myself the same question, “What’s going well?” brings a lot to the surface. I am thankful for my family. They are my world and I am excited to have us together Christmas morning. I am thankful I have a career I fully love. I am blessed to be able to help so many families live a life with maybe a few more opportunities and a few less stresses. It is said when you love what you do, you don’t work a day in your life. I have been able to avoid work for 37 years! I know not everyone can say the same and for that I am thankful. “What’s going well?” you ask? I have the best team on earth! A group of 14 individuals, each with different skill sets, each with the same passion to make a compelling difference in the lives of our clients. I know, I get the accolades and the acknowledgements, but it is totally a team effort.
Lastly and certainly not least, I am thankful for you. The trust and confidence you have place in me and our entire firm has allowed me to provide for my family and my community in ways I would never have imaged. That trust will never be taken for granted. Again, thank you!
So as we quickly move into holiday mode, find a moment to count your blessings, or better yet, ask someone “What’s going well?” You may be surprised how good it make you and the asked feel!
Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and may each of you and yours enjoy a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year!
All the best,
