It’s good ‘ol Thanksgiving in the USA and that means it’s time to pause and reflect on our blessings. This year I’ve made significant breakthroughs on all sorts of fronts, which would not have been possible without the support of these virtues:
My Wife — everything I’m doing right here, right now, is thanks to the hard work and support of my beloved wife. She works extremely hard caring for our family and home so I can work at fulfilling my dreams. When I make it big, she’s getting the first payout!
My Four Children — my kids are awesome to the hilt. I won’t deny they’re a handful (actually four handfuls), but they’re truly the most precious blessing and living legacy anyone can have.
You — if you’re reading this right now, I’m thankful for you. That means that right now, you’re giving me the gift of your time and attention, both of which have infinite value. So thanks!
Good Health — I think everyone in the family got sick once each this year [knock on wood]. That’s pretty amazing considering kids are always bringing home the nastiest germs. I attribute my good health to regular exercise (running, yoga and surfing) and good diet — pretty basic stuff, but it works. In fact, I lost over 5 pounds this year!
Good Food — it all starts with my diet choice: plenty of local organic veggies, whole grains and fresh seafood. That’s about all I eat if you don’t count potato chips and beer, and the occasional mai tai 😉
Living in Hawai‘i — this is a HUGE blessing, and it goes way beyond the cliché of Hawaii. In 2006, we were given a one in a million chance to move back here from Alaska, and we’ve never regretted that decision. Hawaii is a truly amazing place of beauty, power and aloha.
Surfing — surfing is one of the finest activities known to humans. It truly is. I don’t know anyone who can never get enough surfing. This year was especially awesome because I was able to teach my son to surf and now he surfs with me all the time…and he’s ultra-stoked, too!
The Wordful Office — I’ve been in my quiet corner office for almost 3 years, and I still love being there. It’s a place where I get to be 100% focused on my work, and I wouldn’t want it any other way. Think the home office is the way to go? Then read this.
A few loyal friends — I have no more than 3 very close friends. These are “bros” I can call and completely be myself around. That’s a real blessing.
Meeting new friends — I just met a couple of very awesome people recently which I consider new friends. They represent the future I’m striving for, and I’d like nothing more than to be with them when I get to the top.
The Wordful blog — it’s a labor of love, with a big focus on love. This blog has helped me grow in important ways and allowed me to ship my ideas to anyone willing to listen. I’m grateful to whomever has read and commented here.
Other blogs — I’ve managed to whittle away my blog consuming habits to efficiency, but I still follow the same group of bloggers. These bloggers have opened my mind and heart to the what’s possible on the internet. To name a few: JohnChow.com, Shoemoney.com, Copyblogger.com, Chris Brogan and Aaron Wall.
Internet Marketing — it’s an amazing time to be an internet marketing entrepreneur, and I feel so blessed to have a toehold in the game. It’s a fact that there are huge opportunities right now for anyone willing to go for it, and you can bet I’m one of those people.
Sobriety — no, I’m not a recovering alcoholic or a non-drinker, but I’m certainly more sober these days. Sobriety aids focus and clarity. I’ve noticed the people who refuse to give up their old partying habits lack the means to succeed.
My “Day Job” — as much as I hate to admit it, I still work a part time day job that pays enough to keep steady cash flow. It’s far from ideal, but if I didn’t have it, I wouldn’t be able to focus on blogging and internet marketing. So thanks, day job.
My Clients — I’m grateful for the people who put their faith and trust into me this year to help create their websites. It hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been worth it.
Going to Affiliate Dot Com Live in Las Vegas — It’s still early to make a thorough assessment, but so far the event has changed the way I see life and the world and what’s possible in my business. A personal thanks goes to Mike Filsaime and all the wonderful presenters who shared their stories and strategies and shown me what’s possible with the right focus and effort.
2011 — It’s going to be a great year and I’m already grateful for it! What will you do in 2011 to change your life?
Great “attitude of gratitude” Charles! You’re a really good example my friend. Can’t wait to watch you rise to the top in 2011!
Jared — you are too kind, thanks. You’ve got the winning attitude and can’t wait for you to also rise to the top in 2011!