No great firm is built alone.
This year made that clearer than ever.
In our work with advisory businesses across the country and within our own firm, the true differentiator isn’t technology, product, or scale. It’s the people, those who show up, solve problems, and push themselves for the benefit of clients and each other.
Thanksgiving provides a rare moment to pause and acknowledge that fact.
Last year, I said gratitude gives us perspective. This year, I want to go further. Gratitude fosters responsibility. When people commit to a mission with you, you owe them respect, clarity, and meaningful appreciation.
Why Gratitude Matters in Business
Research from Harvard Business Review shows that organizations with leaders who regularly express appreciation build stronger bonds, keep employees more engaged, and perform better in collaboration and innovation. Not because gratitude is sentimental, but because it reinforces shared purpose and positive contributions.
Mark Tibergien wrote extensively about the connection between appreciation and performance cultures. He emphasized that leadership involves making people feel recognized for their contributions. When people know they matter, they excel.
That is as true within advisory firms today as it has ever been.
A Personal Note
To my team: thank you.
You have supported each other, challenged me, propelled ClientWise forward, and served leaders across this profession with genuine dedication. The work we do is meaningful because of the people doing it. I am thankful for your resilience, commitment, and character.
And to every team, every client we collaborate with:
Your advisors, operations professionals, client service teams, and leaders do work that changes families and futures. That matters. And we see it.
The Advisor Reflection
This year, ask yourself:
- Who carried more weight than anyone noticed?
- Who grew the most?
- Who protected your standards?
- Who challenged you at the right moments?
- Who trusted you deeply?
Say the words they earned, then take gratitude one step further.
Gratitude Must Lead To Action
This season is not the finish line. It is the staging ground for what comes next.
- Translate appreciation into progress.
- Support your team members with development plans.
- Elevate standards and accountability.
- Invest in next-generation leaders.
- Prioritize conversations with your clients.
- Build the capacity your growth requires.
Gratitude opens doors.
Leadership walks through it.
Looking Ahead
As we wrap up the year, take a moment. Recognize the wins. Then renew your commitment to the work still to be done. The most successful advisory firms see this time as preparation for bold action in 2026.
All of us at ClientWise thank you for your work, the families you serve, and the leaders you are becoming.
Enjoy your Thanksgiving.
Rest well.
And return ready to build something even stronger.
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