Life often hits us with one thing after another, this year 2020 is the perfect example.

An unexpected expense arises that puts us behind on our rent, a family member becomes ill, and setbacks abound that seem almost hostile in nature. It’s hard enough to organize our thoughts as it is, but even harder to find the energy to solve our problems.

Sometimes, it seems like we just can’t get a break. But the problem really arises when challenges such as this mount. When that happens, we become overwhelmed and are most at risk of quitting on our dreams and goals or even life.

Everyone feels like quitting at some point, gets under the blanket and completely ignores everyone and everything. It happens to the best of us, but know that this “escape” is temporary, this year of 2020 is almost done! You should allow yourself a break every now and then; you need to recharge in order to start fresh, but never allow that break to last for too long and turn you into a quitter. We are all planning on 2021 being a better year.

Quitting won’t make the challenges go away. The only way to truly handle our challenges is by facing them head on – and that requires a powerful, pure-burning motivation to take action despite these setbacks. But where do we get the necessary motivation from?

Many of you know I am passionate about my dogs. I found that if dogs could teach us……… We would learn such things as

1. A warm and loving greeting when loved ones return home.

2. Enjoy a fresh breeze and the wind blowing in your hair.

3. Take naps and stretch before rising.

4. Run, romp and play daily.

5. Avoid biting when a growl will do.

6. Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

7. Be loyal.

8. Never pretend to be something you are not.

9. If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.

10. When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close to them, and nuzzle them gently.

I hope this brings some peace and a smile to your face. We are resilient as the human race and no matter your belief, there is a higher calling and they do have control over each of us if we allow and listen.

Todd Johnson,

President & CEO,

Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce