I was chatting with a friend today about the rest of the year. He told me everything he plans to do and asked about my plans through the new year. I shared this ordered list with him:

• Spend quality time with family and friends for Christmas
• Read an interesting book
• Make progress on a work project

My list is noticeably shorter and simpler than his. Spending time with family and friends is my highest priority. I don’t want to commit to too many things or attempt to do much during this holiday season because I want to be present with them.

Yesterday was Thanksgiving, a holiday I enjoy because I get to spend quality time with family and friends. We’re a few years removed from the beginning of the pandemic, and I’m more intentional about this holiday than I was pre-pandemic. This year I made a point of thinking about and sharing with others all the things I’m thankful for. The year hasn’t gone according to my plan or other people’s plans. At times it’s been frustrating and felt like a stream of bad news. But even with all of 2022’s curveballs, I was able to come up with a long list of people, memories, and things I’m extremely thankful for.

What are you thankful for?

Thanksgiving week has historically been calm for me. This week, though, hasn’t been as calm as I expected, and the rest of the week will likely be more of the same. I wasn’t sure if it was just me, so I asked a friend who does deal-related work. He’s experiencing something similar: lots of deals and other things he’s trying to get over the finish line. I also know a few founders trying to close rounds, friends trying to close real estate transactions, company leaders navigating layoffs, etc. All anecdotal, sure, but there appears to be more activity on a variety of fronts.

I’ll make sure I spend quality time with friends and family this week, but otherwise, no lounging around for me. The rest of the time, I’ll be working on finishing various projects.