What We Can Be Thankful for as 2024 Comes to a Close

By Zac Shaw

It’s safe to say that 2024 has been a year unlike any other in recent history. The job market and employment landscape have undergone significant shifts over the past year—some positive, some not so much. New job reports and unemployment numbers have fluctuated from month to month, often revised after the fact. We’ve seen a mix of layoffs, return-to-office mandates, and hiring surges, all alongside one of the most contentious election cycles in memory.

But as Thanksgiving approaches, it’s important to pause, reflect, and focus on the things we can be grateful for, especially as we close out this whirlwind year (and as we bid farewell to the barrage of political ads, texts, and phone calls).

A New Year Brings New Opportunities

For those who have struggled with job searches or are feeling unfulfilled in their current roles, it’s important to remember that the new year often brings fresh opportunities. We’re just six weeks away from 2025, and at ALTA, we typically see a surge of new job openings in January. While that may seem far off if you’re currently unemployed, conversations around new initiatives are already happening behind the scenes.

If there’s a company or role you’re interested in, now is the time to start networking. If you’re thinking of making a move in the new year, reach out to a recruiter or a trusted professional contact now to start the conversation. The seeds you plant today can yield a harvest of opportunities in 2025.

No More Election Ads

Regardless of your political views or how you feel about the outcome, we can all agree on one thing: nobody will miss election season. The uncertainty surrounding which administration would take office has kept many employers cautious, especially when it comes to hiring and making major investments in technology. With the election behind us, businesses can now move forward with more confidence, knowing the likely direction of economic policies. This clarity should lead to more consistent hiring strategies and, hopefully, a more stable professional environment in the months ahead.

Friends, Family, and the Gift of Time

Thanksgiving and the holiday season are a wonderful time to reconnect with loved ones. These gatherings offer an invaluable opportunity to recharge, reflect, and give thanks for the people who support us. Taking time off during this season allows us to step back from the daily grind and appreciate what we’ve achieved, both professionally and personally. Whether it’s spending time with family, sharing a meal with friends, or simply enjoying a quiet moment, these moments of connection help remind us of what really matters and what we value most.

The Power of Your Professional Network

While we may not always gather with colleagues for a traditional Thanksgiving meal, it’s worth taking a moment to appreciate the professional network we’ve built. As 2024 has shown us, the job market can be unpredictable, and your network can be an essential source of support and opportunity.

Reach out to your professional connections to express gratitude for their support, advice, and collaboration this year. If you’re considering a job change, now is a great time to reconnect, ask for insights, or even brainstorm potential strategies for a new career path in 2025.

Opportunities for Growth

Regardless of how 2024 has played out for you, one thing is certain: you are not the same person you were a year ago. Whether this year has been a time of growth and success or a challenging period that you’d rather forget, you’ve likely learned something along the way. We all have the opportunity to become more resilient, more adaptable, and more capable as professionals.

If you’re feeling stagnant, there’s still time to change that. With just a few weeks left in the year, now is the perfect moment to reflect on your personal and professional growth and create a plan for the year ahead. Take advantage of the remaining time in 2024 to set new goals and map out your path forward for 2025.

Gratitude Can Be the Key to 2025

Whether 2024 has been a year of triumph or one you’d prefer to leave behind, there’s always something to be grateful for. If you make gratitude a regular practice, it could not only boost your happiness but also set the tone for a successful career in 2025. After all, a mindset of appreciation can lead to greater resilience, deeper relationships, and a more positive outlook on the opportunities that lie ahead.

As you reflect on the past year and prepare for the next, remember: gratitude is more than just a holiday tradition—it’s a powerful tool that can help you find joy, purpose, and success in both your personal and professional life.