“Thankfulness is the beginning of gratitude. Gratitude is the completion of thankfulness. Thankfulness may consist merely of words. Gratitude is shown in acts.” – Henri-Frédéric Amiel
November is a month dedicated to gratitude, and as I reflect on what I’m thankful for, it’s important to recognize the incredible people who make a difference in my life. For me, this includes my family, my amazing team at Protea Financial, our valued clients, and all those who support us daily. I am blessed. I am so thankful. Their dedication, trust, and hard work are what help us achieve our goals and turn dreams into reality.
Gratitude isn’t just a kind gesture, it is so much more, and it’s backed by science. Studies show that expressing gratitude boosts positivity, strengthens relationships, and improves overall well-being. It helps us feel more fulfilled and resilient, acts as a stress-buster by boosting dopamine and serotonin levels, and lowers cortisol, resulting in reduced stress and better health.
The power of gratitude is amazing! We all want to improve our lives, and showing gratitude is a great way to do that.
I had the absolute pleasure of attending a keynote by Mark Mathews. Mark is an inspirational speaker who shares his story of facing his fears and using the power of gratitude to overcome a devastating injury in the prime of his big wave surfing career. In his keynote, Mark highlighted the science of gratitude and how it helped him stay resilient and positive through his journey.
Mark’s story reminds me that even in the most challenging situations, gratitude can be a guiding force that helps us persevere. It’s easy to get caught up in the struggles of everyday life, but when we pause and reflect on the things we are thankful for, it shifts our perspective and empowers us to face difficulties with courage and hope.
Additionally, gratitude strengthens relationships by promoting empathy, trust, and reciprocity. Expressing appreciation—whether to family, friends, or colleagues—creates a cycle of positivity that enhances our connections. As a team, we make it a priority to acknowledge and celebrate the efforts of every individual who contributes to delivering the exceptional service our clients rely on.
Gratitude also encourages a culture of support and teamwork. At Protea Financial, we recognize that our success is built on the collective strength of our team. Every member plays an essential role in helping our clients succeed, and every contribution, no matter how small, is valued and appreciated. This culture of gratitude not only improves our working environment but also helps us deliver the best possible outcomes for our clients.
I want to take this opportunity to give thanks to some key people in my life:
- – My family, who inspire me every day and provide me with the strength and motivation to keep moving forward. I am blessed with two amazing, energetic boys who make me proud daily. I also have the pleasure of enjoying the journey of life with the most amazing partner anyone could ask for.
- – Our fantastic team at Protea Financial, whose hard work and dedication are the driving force behind helping our clients achieve their goals. I have thrown a lot at our team this year. There have been lots of new ideas and many internal changes. I am so proud of the way they have all taken it in stride and executed for the benefit of each other and those we serve.
- – Our clients, who place their trust in us and allow us to be part of their journey. Your success is our success, and I am truly grateful for the partnerships we’ve built. This has been a tough year for the wine industry, but the hard work and resilience of our clients is truly inspirational. Keep striving for your dreams, and we will be here to support you along the way!
- – All those who support Protea daily, including our partners, friends, and the incredible guests of Protea Conversations who share their stories and help us all grow.
The remainder of this month and into the future, I encourage you to practice gratitude—whether by appreciating your team, colleagues, or loved ones. Small gestures of recognition go a long way in fostering motivation and connection.
Gratitude can take many forms—it could be a simple thank you, a handwritten note, or even just taking the time to listen and support someone in need. These acts of appreciation not only uplift others but also enrich our own lives by deepening our relationships and fostering a sense of community. The more we practice gratitude, the more we inspire others to do the same, creating a ripple effect that spreads positivity and joy.
Let’s wrap up the year with gratitude for the milestones we’ve achieved together and the partnerships we’ve strengthened. Let’s make November a month of appreciation and connection. May it serve as a reminder to cherish each moment, nurture our relationships, and acknowledge the many gifts we have.
Take a moment today to reach out to those who matter most and let them know how thankful you are to have them as part of your journey.
