While there have been challenges in the last 12 months, we started 2021 with optimism and gratitude. We asked team members from across The Johnson Group to reflect on 2020 and share what they are most thankful for.
"2020 posed new challenges in the multifamily industry that afforded me the opportunity to learn new things. I am grateful for the growth that happens when unexpected events demand all hands on deck and collaboration that inspires innovative ideas. From a personal perspective, I am grateful that my family has spent more time together over the past year. Without as many competing demands on our time we have been able to refocus on the simple joys of being together at home. "
"I am very thankful that I was able to not only continue working for an amazing company that I love, but also was giving the opportunity to transition into the new Regional Team Lead role. In 2020, I also was able to move back to Mobile, AL to be near my family. While social distancing has changed many aspects of our lives, I was still able to go golfing with my dad almost every weekend, in separate carts of course. 2020 will most definitely be a year to remember. "
"Yes, 2020 was a challenging year, however I am so proud and thankful for the creativity and tenacity of our team members. Where other companies may have thought there was no way, we at OTO made a way. “Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson"
"While 2020 was challenging on many fronts, it certainly crystallized many aspects of my life for which I am grateful. Personally I’m incredibly thankful for my family, friends and relative good health. Accompanied with being a freedom loving American, these are true blessings. Professionally, I’m thankful for our talented, hard working team and for calculated risk-taking entrepreneurial capitalism, which makes our business possible. "
"The year 2020 was a year where we overcame adversities and turned them into advantages. It allowed us to think outside the box and persevere during some of the most difficult times in the hospitality industry. Our sales and operations teams came together as a united front and left no stone unturned. We uncovered business that allowed us to keep our hotels open. It is this level of synergy that 2020 brought to light that I am most thankful for. "
"Last year was definitely a challenging year, however, one that taught us many great lessons on a professional as well as a personal level. I must say that I am thankful to have supportive friends and my family along with their health and well-being. Professionally, I am grateful and thankful to be part of an amazing, supportive work-family at ACA who give their best efforts every day with professionalism, integrity and a great attitude. "
"Over the past year, I have realized that building and fostering relationships with family, friends and colleagues is of the utmost importance. I’m thankful for that realization, as I’ve tried to do a better job of focusing on the things that really matter in my life, like being present when I have time with my husband and two daughters or truly listening to someone when they speak—not to respond but to understand. Our lives and work can be fast-paced, but we must take time to make personal and lasting connections with each other."
"This past year has been a tough one for sure, I am thankful for the quality time I got to spend with my family. 2020 has really put things into perspective, a constant reminder to count our blessings, not our troubles - for us to focus on the present & make memories with our family & friends. "
"This quote comes to mind when I reflect on 2020 - “Use your fear…it can take you to the place where you store your courage.” - Amelia Earhart"