Reflecting with Gratitude

As the end of the year quickly approaches, those of us in the landscape industry find ourselves at a natural juncture for reflection. The seasonal cycle is coming to an end, and it’s time to look back on the months of hard work, challenges, triumphs, and growth.

Consider the skills you’ve honed, the perseverance you’ve shown in the face of challenges, and the lessons you’ve learned. Whether you’ve added awards and certifications to your resume, expanded your general knowledge, or simply grown in confidence as a leader, these achievements are worth acknowledging.

Gratitude not only helps us appreciate the past, but it also fuels our enthusiasm for the future. By having a sense of gratitude – whether for our work, our teams, or our clients – we set ourselves up for continued growth, success, and fulfillment in the year ahead.

The Beauty of Our Work
As landscape contractors, we have the rare opportunity to work with nature. Gratitude for how our work enriches the lives of our clients and the local community – even in ways that might not always be immediately obvious – brings a sense of fulfillment. Our efforts transform outdoor spaces into places of peace, comfort, and enjoyment.

Acknowledging the Teamwork
Landscaping is rarely a solo endeavor. Most often, it’s the result of collaboration – whether between crew members, with clients, or with our suppliers. Take a moment to appreciate the effort that each individual brings to the table. The early mornings, the long hours, the coordination that goes into ensuring the right products are delivered and the job is done right – these are all parts of a greater whole.

Having a Professional Support System
We all know the tough stuff of finding work, good employees, estimating, and putting the work in the ground. Running a successful company takes a special finesse. CLCA is there to motivate us, support us, and connect us with people and resources to help us be prosperous.

Lessons Learned
Every year brings with it its own set of challenges. Whether it’s dealing with unpredictable weather, managing demanding clients, troubleshooting equipment failures, or navigating labor shortages, there are always lessons to be learned. Gratitude for these experiences, even the tough ones, can help reshape them into stepping-stones for personal and professional growth.

Appreciation for Clients
Without clients, our businesses would not exist. It’s important to reflect on the relationships we’ve built. Whether they are residential homeowners or commercial property managers, their loyalty and ongoing business are central to our success. Not to mention, happy clients are not only likely to return, but they are also your best source of referrals.

We are so fortunate to work in an industry that allows us to help the environment, beautify spaces, and improve the quality of life for those we serve. In an era where many jobs are sedentary or confined to offices, our profession offers a refreshing, fulfilling alternative. I encourage you to consider what you’ve learned that can make next year smoother and more successful. Take the time to reflect on the past and then look ahead with optimism and excitement for the year to come.

~ David Horton, 2024 CLCA OC Chapter President