Team,
As I prepare this month’s BE message, I’ve been reflecting on how grateful I am to have had the opportunity to share these thoughts and personal perspectives with you through this forum over the years. It’s hard to believe that it’s been almost six years and the 70th monthly “BE” message that I’ve had the privilege to share with this amazing team. I’ve always understood that my guidance and perspectives are no more important or profound than any of yours, but nonetheless, I’m grateful for the opportunity and humbled by your acceptance and embrace of this tradition. In particular, it’s been wonderful to connect and learn so much more about our team through your responses and sharing of personal stories and perspectives.
Since starting this ritual, I don’t ever recall feeling the weight or pressure that I feel at this moment to offer words of encouragement as we all seek comfort, confidence and enthusiasm. I’ve spent days in deep thought, deliberating on this message, only to realize that no single word or theme seems to capture my full range of emotions. Be hopeful, Be optimistic, Be resilient, Be grateful…. all come to mind and certainly capture my feelings on most days, but I’d be less than truthful if l didn’t admit to moments of anxiousness and frustration with our current situation.
Taking a step back and digesting the range of feelings that many of you have shared with me as well, I realize that it’s more appropriate that I not offer you a singular theme or perspective this month. In fact, what I believe is most important right now is that we allow ourselves the time and the space to experience our full emotions and JUST “BE”! It’s ok to BE a little scared, anxious and mad about all that is happening around us. And it’s also ok to BE grateful, optimistic and excited about our future and the way our OneDigital team has pulled together in support of our customers and each other. Regardless of how you felt when you stepped out of bed this morning, the important thing is that you allow yourself to “Just Be” and continue to put one foot in front of the other as we tackle this turbulent chapter together, one day at a time.
Team, as I mentioned in my video message last week, even though we are not physically together, I feel closer than ever to all of you. Our shared commitment to our customers and to each other has been on full display over the past few weeks and this team’s response has been nothing short of incredible. I believe that a team’s true character shines through in times of adversity and I couldn’t be more proud of the character and soul of this organization. My confidence and optimism for our future is grounded in what I have seen from our team, not only the past few weeks but any time our organization has faced obstacles.
So, Just BE whatever you are feeling right now, but please also know that you are surrounded by a team with deep passion and character who have your back at all times. It’s easy for good companies to have success when times are good, but only “great” companies thrive when times are tough. I have little doubt that we will come through this period with more passion, character and conviction than ever before. I’m so proud of what we have built together- our culture, our strength, our drive and our compassion. Our unique character has been on full display and I’m so proud to be part of this team. Thank you to my OneDigital family for who you are and all you do!
Just “Be”!!
Adam
