Around Thanksgiving a small smile appears on my face that pretty much stays in place right into January.  That smile reflects the old holiday jingle, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year.”  Yes, there is too much commercialism, and yes, the pace can get frantic.  We may be called upon to attend functions we’d rather skip, and family interactions can be dicey.  Still, the benefits of the holiday season far outweigh the potential pitfalls.

Specifically, we get to reconnect with old friends, reflect on the good things the year has brought, and consider questions such as, “What would he like as a present?”  We think of those who matter most to us, those who are living and those who are not.  And while that may be bittersweet, it is a rich experience.

This year my smile may be a bit wider because 2012 bestowed great rewards.  We at Next Turn had the pleasure of continuing to work with many valued long-term clients – thank you, friends at City and County of San Francisco, Golden Gate Bridge District, Melita Group, Port of Oakland, Carl Zeiss Meditec, Zeiss-Microscopy, and Theravance.  It was also a terrific year for building new client relationships…thank you, Skyfire Labs, Synopsys, SAP, Pacific Steel, Monterey Bay Mortgage, Syer Industries, and County of Marin!

I have gratitude for the many talented business partners who make our excellent programs possible.

During 2012, we also created our first e-learning program, CALM in Conflict™, which will launch in January 2013 (stay tuned)!

All in all, like the holiday season that ends it, 2012 has brought many opportunities to learn and grow.  We sincerely hope the same is true for you and that 2013 brings you joy, personal and economic health.

And by the way, one of my 2013 New Year’s Resolutions is to keep that holiday smile on my face throughout the coming year!