1.  Technology - seriously. I know that it can be a headache sometimes, but think about how far we've come. Last week I spoke to someone in another country via the computer, streamed a Disney video for my daughter, asked my phone a question and received an instant answer. Change your feelings about technology. Instead of seeing it as the enemy, be thankful for the innovation (and the innovators). If you need a little perspective, just remember, people used to complain about technology when their typewriters would jam up!

2.    Ambition - I work with business professionals from all types of industries. I'm continually impressed by the level of ambition. I'm not talking about blind corporate ambition here, but the ambition within us to want to be better, to learn new skills, to take our business to the next level.  Be ambitious, it looks good on you!

3.    Doing more with less - What?! Why be thankful for less? This economy has driven us all to do more with less, and yes, I'm thankful for that. In many ways productivity is about simplification of a process. By doing more with less we are forced to rework the system and make it better, leaner and stronger.  

4.    Being open - There is one factor that will determine if training is a success or a failure. If the person is open to new ideas? Being open is a frame of mind and a way of being. Admitting that you don't have all the answers and finding experts that do.  In my experience, successful people have this openness. Let your walls down, you'll be amazed at what comes in.

5.    YOU!- I'm thankful for you! Thanks for reading and for your continued support in 2011.

Thank you!