As we approach the new year, it’s a good time to reflect on the importance of gratitude and giving. These last 10 months have changed how we live, work and play, but one key lesson we have learned from COVID-19 is that we can still stick together while staying apart. No doubt, the pandemic profoundly and directly impacts commercial real estate through quarantines, shutdowns, social distancing, supply chain disruptions, and loss of consumer confidence. CRE and the overall economy will rebound. The speed with which the country and the industry emerge from the crisis depends on the availability and adoption of vaccines, patience with masks and social distancing, monetary stimulus, and stabilizing the property types, markets, and projects. “To whom much is given, much will be required.” If you have heard that sage quote, you know it means we are held responsible for what we have. If we have been blessed with knowledge, talent, time, and resources, it is expected that we use these gifts to benefit others. Although social distancing keeps us physically apart, it does not mean we are alone. There are countless opportunities to support others. Yes, celebrations, dinners with friends, and sporting events have mostly been canceled. However, compassion, kindness, and faith in humankind have not been postponed. Here are some strategies we can take that reinforce this: SHOW APPRECIATION.

Sometimes the most effective things are the easiest. When did you last say thank you to someone in your organization for a job well done? Perhaps you do this regularly, in which case you should encourage others to do it as well. Taking the time to show gratitude makes others feel valued. It is also contagious behavior, and the more everyone does it, the more it becomes part of your culture. A study by Glassdoor found that 80 percent of employees are willing to work harder for an appreciative leader, and 70 percent said they would feel better about themselves and their efforts if their managers recognized them more often.

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