Anyone who knows me well is aware that I am an unwavering New York Mets fan. Just as a moderate baseball enthusiast would know, the Mets have endured more years of disappointment than success throughout their history, particularly in recent times. And for those with a deeper passion for the game, they recall that the Mets recently lost in the National League Championship Series to the Los Angeles Dodgers, with a score of four games to two. This means they were just two wins away from reaching the World Series, where they would have faced their crosstown rivals, the New York Yankees. It was actually the Mets' first World Series appearance since 2015.Looking Back on a Season of Highs and Lows
At the start of the season, Mets fans, including myself, held high hopes. However, few of us could have predicted that the team would perform this exceptionally well. In the end, they emerged as one of the top four teams in baseball. A "good" season, as many people might have defined it in the spring, could have been a winning record and a chance to compete in the playoffs. But the Mets surpassed those expectations. Despite this, having the season end so close to a championship (the last Mets World Series title was in 1986, long before my time) is a painful blow. 1: The Mets' journey this season was filled with both exhilarating moments and heart-wrenching defeats. They showed remarkable resilience and determination on the field, leaving fans with a mix of emotions. From close victories to heartbreaking losses, every game was a rollercoaster ride. 2: The team's performance this year was a testament to their talent and hard work. They overcame numerous obstacles and challenges, proving that they have what it takes to compete at the highest level. Even though they fell just short of the ultimate goal, their achievements should not be overlooked.After a night of brooding and contemplating the future of the franchise - which players will return, who won't, which other teams had unlucky years and might improve next year, and whether the Mets will reach this point again in 2025 - I tuned into some of my usual sports podcasts. Surprisingly, many of the hosts were quite upbeat. Although this was never supposed to be the year the Mets won the World Series, and despite the pain following the end of their season, there is still a lot to be grateful for and to take joy from. 1: It's important to remember that sports are not just about winning or losing. The Mets' journey this year has taught us valuable lessons about perseverance and the human spirit. Even in the face of disappointment, there is always something to be learned and appreciated. 2: The Mets' fans have shown incredible loyalty and support throughout the season. Their passion for the team is unwavering, and they have been there through thick and thin. This sense of community is what makes sports so special.From my conversations with travel advisors and by looking at the results of surveys we've conducted, I know that advisors and agency owners have a lot on their minds - from hiring new staff and finding new clients to learning about artificial intelligence and figuring out how to handle clients who are concerned about the economy or the November election (which will at least be over by the time this is published). I'm here to remind you not to get too overwhelmed by all of this. Sometimes, the best way to focus on the future is to simply look back at all the amazing things you've already accomplished. 1: In the midst of the chaos and challenges of the business world, it's easy to get caught up in what's next. But taking the time to reflect on our past successes can give us the motivation and confidence we need to move forward. 2: Whether it's a successful marketing campaign, a memorable client event, or a trip that exceeded all expectations, we should celebrate our victories. These achievements are a testament to our hard work and dedication.So, be proud of the things you've achieved this year. Take comfort in the fact that you're on the right track. And once you've had your moment of temporary satisfaction, get ready to make 2025 even better. 1: Let's carry the momentum from this year into the next. Use your past successes as a foundation and keep striving for greater things. 2: With a positive attitude and a determination to succeed, 2025 holds great potential for us all. Let's make the most of it.