Fate whispers to the warrior, “You cannot withstand the storm” and the warrior whispers back “I am the storm.” ~Unknown

We all know someone fighting a “storm”. I admire those that fight with such perseverance, optimism, and strength that their strength and resilience becomes all you see. You no longer see the thunder and lightning or someone drenched from head to toe by the rain, you see only the sun shining out from their person. While the rest of us reach for cover, they become the storm.

“When things are not adding up in your life-start subtracting!” ~Anonymous

As our company has grown and we have added more and more opportunities, sometimes it feels like I am spinning out of control and into space. I have been reevaluating my interactions to focus more on quality rather than quantity, because it seemed something had shifted. I want to feel productive, but purposeful. Lately, our team has focused on “doing less – better.” I encourage you to ask yourself with each activity… What value does this bring and to be mindful in your execution? -Amy

“If you hold an anti-war rally, I shall not attend. But if you hold a Pro-Peace rally invite me.” ~ Mother Teresa

In the current political climate, I felt I should pivot slightly on my monthly “Nugget.” So, here goes… If you would like to march or speak out – please do so in support of something – in support of a better America, in support of LGBT rights, in support of women’s rights, in support of healthcare rights, in support of minority rights, but please do NOT march against something. Be pro peace, pro diversity, pro equality, but be FOR something positive and not just AGAINST what you do not like.

“The harder you work for something, the greater you’ll feel when you achieve it.”

I found that my feeling of reward is very closely tied to my effort. Sometimes I don’t always appreciate a “big” win that was easier than expected. I see the same in my children. Hard works makes the reward more meaningful and valuable.
~ Amy Schmidt

“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” – John F. Kennedy

Sometimes I fall short in expressing gratitude to those I appreciate. I think I show it, but I know that I do not say the words often enough. Recently, I was reminded that actions are great, but so are words of gratitude. Doing something thoughtful is great, but it can be so much more powerful, if I took a few extra moments to say “why” and “how” someone has made an impact.
~ Amy Schmidt

“It is not happy people who are thankful; it’s thankful people who are happy!”

Don’t wait until the 4th Thursday in November to be Thankful. The more gratitude you express, the more you will see. I am thankful for the support and love of my family, the energy from the team I work with, the humor and insight of my friends, and even the criticisms from others that make me stronger. And none of these cost money! These are the things that make me rich. ~ Amy Schmidt