Leading with Hope
by Jan Peery
History will forever remind us that 2020 was a year of the unexpected and challenging It was a time we found ourselves reexamining how we connect on personal, social and business levels. In many ways, we found ourselves looking through new/different set of lenses – from political unrest, turmoil and division to (what was for too many) an awakening of racial disparities and injustice still existing in our democracy.
The roller coaster of emotions in our country seem to have reached heights never before seen as friends, family and business peers struggled with the political aftermath, the economy and job loss, or tragically, the loss of thousands of lives due to the pandemic. Each of these elements of 2020 were overwhelming – combined they seemed at times crushing.
Yet, throughout, we looked for signs of hope. Businesses have in many ways morphed their modes of doing business and service delivery. Political parties at least TALK about finding “middle ground” and working together. In our personal lives, we have discovered creative ways to connect with loved ones and friends- even while social distancing. And, new vaccines brought hope for the future.
Even in the darkest days of 2020, we found sparks of hope. So, as we step further into 2021, consider:
If you only carry one thing throughout your entire life, let it be hope. Hope that:
better things are ahead;
you can get through even the toughest of times; and
you are stronger than any challenge that comes your way.
Let it be hope that you are exactly where you are meant to be right now – and on the path to where you are meant to be in the future. (paraphrased from Nikki Banas, Walk the Earth)
Find the hope in your lives – and let others see hope in you that you may inspire them. Together, we will not only survive – but we will thrive.