Life is like a box of chocolates; you never know what you’re going to get.  There’s a treasure trove of gratitude lessons from the 1994 classic, "Forrest Gump." This cinematic masterpiece reveals the power of creating opportunities from seemingly insurmountable obstacles by maintaining a positive attitude.  

Every year, our family gathers around the dinner table to express our gratitude and our many blessings. Thanksgiving is a time when we give thanks to our friends, our family and the delicious meal before us. Beyond these blessings, it’s also an opportunity to show appreciation for the opportunities that have shaped our lives and business endeavors.

In the world of multifamily real estate, every day brings unexpected challenges and opportunities, and it's crucial to recognize that even when things don't go as planned, we can gain something even more valuable—whether it is increased expertise, valuable network connections, a strengthened work ethic or a deeper understanding of areas needing improvement.

There are many lessons we can take from Forrest Gump and use in both our multifamily business strategies and day-to-day lives.

1. Kindness

Forrest Gump’s lack of judgement and empathy towards others, regardless of their circumstances, can serve as a reminder of the importance of treating everyone with kindness and respect.

2. Acknowledgment

Forrest’s appreciation for his friends and mentors demonstrates the importance of acknowledging and being grateful for the support networks that can help in business, such as mentors, advisors and colleagues.

3. Be Open-Minded

His acceptance of people from all walks of life teaches us to be grateful for diversity in the workplace, as it can lead to creativity, innovation and a broader perspective.

4. No Win is too Small

Forrest’s gratitude for the progress he makes in various endeavors is evident. In business, taking time to appreciate and celebrate small wins and milestones can boost motivation and morale. It’s a reminder to be thankful, being grateful is important even if you’re in a crummy situation.

When we can recognize the positives in our accomplishments and express gratitude for them, our co-workers, clients and everyone around us often sense that appreciation too. Expressing gratitude is not only a simple act of appreciation but also a strategic move that can lead to more successful transactions, stronger client relationships, and a thriving real estate business. Too often, people go insane because they don’t practice the art of gratitude. In multifamily, partnerships and investor trust are important factors of success, showing appreciation can make all the difference in the success of your business.

As Thanksgiving approaches, you might be stepping away from work for a day but take a moment to embrace the gratitude that accompanies our professional endeavors. There's nothing quite like the passion and connections that work can foster, so let's remember to cherish them during this holiday season!

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