Going into this new year, our little Strictly Business family has a lot of excitement as we look ahead to our future as an ever-prominent publication and effective advertising avenue in the Lincoln and Omaha business communities. A couple things we’re working on include a new website that will be more functional for mobile view, a social media add-on for advertisers to help them take their marketing reach further, and an online-only “Expert Blog” editorial package. As we fine-tune these offerings, we’re constantly listening to feedback from our clients to help them get the most out of their partnership with us. At Strictly Business, we’re so client-focused. Even when we did a gift exchange for Christmas last month, we ordered our favorite pies from a client and shopped at our clients’ businesses for presents. We have a lot of fun together as a team, and nothing brings us more joy than to see our clients succeed. When our local businesses are thriving, we’re all thriving.
Aside from the goals I have for Strictly Business in 2021, I’m looking forward to growing personally as well. Last year brought so many new challenges, which meant there were a lot of new opportunities to grow, learn, and become a stronger business owner and individual. I anticipate this year will be just as interesting as our community navigates back into a reality that isn’t dictated by fear. The journey back to normalcy will no doubt be met with caution, but I’m beyond ready to see the smiling faces of my neighbors again as we dine, shop, travel, and live our lives without apprehension. My resolution for the New Year is to remain steadfast in my support of local businesses, in addition to being the best friend, mother, wife, and employer I can be, keeping God at the center of it all. I’ve asked my team to share what they’re looking forward to this year, as well.
Hannah Hundley, Editor/Director of Operations—Next month, I will be celebrating three years at Strictly Business, which is the longest I’ve ever worked for a company. This is something I’m very proud of and humbled by. It’s so rewarding to be a part of something bigger than myself; something that allows me to be actively engaged with so many amazing local businesses and organizations. In 2021, my goal is to bring even more businesses into the fold through new, creative advertising opportunities in the magazine. I’m looking forward to shaking many new hands this year once we’re able to unapologetically do so again. Personally, my New Year’s resolution would be to love myself better so I can, in turn, love those around me better.
Diane Gumaer, Writer—First and foremost, I’m looking forward to 2020 being over. A new year brings new hope, and I think we all need a dose of that. I also look forward to the ongoing journey to improve myself, from whole body-and-mind health and wellness to, gulp, getting better organized. My personal pledge is to spend more time in contact with extended friends and family, even if it is by phone or mail. I’m excited for the release of my first co-authored book just weeks from now and, as always, can’t wait to spend another year with my sweet, loving husband Jon and see what we conquer together next!
Dillon Crawford, Art Director—2020 was certainly an adventure for my family and I…lots of trials and tribulations. The greatest lesson that this year taught me was to truly appreciate what I have right now, right in front of me. For that lesson, I am grateful. 2021 presents many more opportunities for growth, and I look forward to seeing what can be accomplished. My main goal is to finally get married to my amazing fiancé (2020 was not ideal for that). Among other things, I’m looking forward to house shopping. We’re excited to find a home to start our lives together in as a family.
Tegan Colton, Social Media Strategist—In 2021, I’d like to focus more on my career and practicing healthy habits for my life, including embracing self-love and self-care! 2020 has been hard on so many, including myself, and I’m eager to move forward into 2021 with a healthier mindset that will allow me to be an encouragement to myself and others during these difficult times. We got this, together!