Time to Give Thanks
The pilgrims celebrated the first Thanksgiving almost 400 years ago and we have given thanks every November since. While current Thanksgivings have become more commercialized over the years (football games, parades, the beginning of the holiday shopping season), the tradition of giving thanks, along with the eating of turkey, has remained the true constant.
During these tough economic times, it can be difficult to focus on the positive things, but I am sure that we all have many things for which we are truly thankful. I believe, in many cases, especially at work, we do not always recognize a good thing when we see it. Marcus Buckingham, author of First Break all the Rules, stated that most managers are not giving recognition and praise to their employees in a timely manner. I am sure that this deficit also carries over to their personal lives as well.
I have tried to figure out why this occurs. The only answer that I can think of is that many of us do not know how good we have it, and sometimes when we do realize this, it is too late. It appears that we are all more comfortable, due to our education, to performing technical tasks like posting debits and credits, interpreting tax laws, writing computer code, teaching a class or preparing a business valuation report, than dealing with the “soft” skills. Perhaps it could be because we have not been properly trained in non-technical areas, or maybe it is simply because we sometimes get too busy to stop and properly thank those who have helped us.
The ASCPA provides many classes on how to be a better manager, as well as how to effectively supervise people. Being around ASCPA board of directors meetings and working with some of Arizona’s best accounting leaders (board members) has provided me some guidance in this area. In addition, I have also had the pleasure of meeting many firm leaders during my ASCPA involvement and have learned how they have become such great leaders.
Hopefully we understand the need to give thanks to those who have helped us be successful at our jobs, as well as those that support us at home. I would like to suggest that we also consider giving thanks for all that we have and spend a little time thinking of those less fortunate during this holiday season.
While we are all struggling with work/life balance and the pressures of our own everyday lives, many are wondering where their next meal is going to come from or whether they will have a roof over their heads when they go to sleep tonight.
While I understand that none of us will be able to solve all of the world’s problems, I would like for each of us to consider showing our appreciation by doing something for a worthy cause.
Dave Thomas, the late founder of the Wendy’s franchise, summed it up best by saying, “If you are not giving of yourself as much as you’re giving of your wallet, are you really generous down deep? We should work hard to make the Virtuous Circle of Generosity the number one epidemic in the United States—giving of wealth, giving of self.”
I ask that all of us help start the epidemic. Our acts of kindness and generosity can certainly make a difference in many lives.
AZ CPA – November 2008
