Busy January

Hello Hatters,

In the Finance World where I work, January is anything but a slow post holiday blues period. We rush to finalize year end numbers and prepare for audits. In some of my previous positions, I was also responsible for end of year payroll reports. I also celebrate a birthday towards the end of January and there is not much of a chance to chill. It is hectic and it is a challenge.

Things are really good though because of my team members. I am blessed to share my work days with dedicated people who bring their best to the day. Recently, I was able to spend some time with each member of the team and it was a great experience for me. Several of my team members are pursuing more education and some are learning the ropes of additional responsibilities. It is a delight to see each person develop more and more skills.

I truly believe the saying that people don't care how much you know unless they know how much you care. These shared moments were a reminder to me that caring takes time. Listening is essential. Encouraging others to chase their dreams means you have to know them; you have to engage with your team. I have many things on my schedule, but do I have the right things on my calendar? A good assessment of this question is the first step to keeping the right priorities. People. People are the priority.

Now of course, I am looking at my time spent away from work. How am I doing with the listening, the caring, and the encouraging in the off hours? My concern is that I'm wearing the "I'm too busy hat." I don't want to be so swamped that I'm not doing the important things: caring, listening and encouraging. I may have a busy January or whatever month it is at the time, but let's face it, people matter. How is your month shaping up? Comments are always welcome.

Hugzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz,

MT