2021 was a tough year and most people are glad to see it end. But despite last year’s challenges, I can think of at least eight positive things that happened in 2021 that I’m truly grateful for.
First, the personal stuff:
1. My daughter got married (finally, after two postponements due to the pandemic). And even though the guest count was about half our original list, we had a fantastic celebration. Everyone was vaccinated and masked, and fortunately nobody got sick afterward.
2. We adopted a senior West Highland terrier who’s become part of our family. Especially since we are spending more time at home, it feels good to have a furry companion who needs several walks a day. It’s a win-win for us and for Pepper!
3. My husband became a bread-baking expert. Jonathan is such an amazing baker, he could probably open an artisanal bakery to sell his masterpieces from our home (although I’m encouraging hime to keep his day job!)
4. I had lower back surgery in early December. Increasing pain shooting down the back of my right leg became a huge distraction. After consulting with three expert doctors, I went for surgery and it’s been great ever since. I was up and walking without pain just hours after the procedure.
Next, the business stuff:
1. In 2021, I created one of the most complex and interesting websites in my career so far. Merging an old html website into the new WordPress site I designed with my development partner Umberto Zanesi , with help from Gavin Edson (both located in Europe), I completed a historic mapping site for the College of Charleston. We are now working on another website involving an archival collection of historic postcards from synagogues all over the southern USA.
2. Thanks to Zoom, I attended lots of Meetup events and learned new skills to benefit my clients. I didn’t miss the long schlep to meetings in Atlanta traffic that ate up half my workday, and I still got to see and meet with colleagues who work in the same creative and website space.
3. I worked with many independent women-owned businesses and practices in 2021; these clients are really becoming my “sweet spot.” It’s gratifying to see more clients realize the importance of having an up-to-date website as the hub of their online presence, supported by consistently branded emails and social media.
4. I implemented more effective business processes, including the use of online forms to assess project scope, budget and timing. The form questions also help my clients gain clarity around their project goals and priorities.
What are you grateful for as we enter a new year? What are your plans for moving your business forward?