Recently, I have been struck by the pervasive, negative attitude - not just about the construction industry but generally in news, blogs, and other media I follow. The architectural billing index is down, unemployment is stuck at a high rate, construction starts are down, the housing industry is in the tank.
Positive Feelings
However, I feel positive about the industry. Our work load is increasing. We are consistently busy starting new construction projects and resurrecting stalled projects. Potential new clients are calling for proposals. Even the hospitality industry is showing signs of life. Our hospitality work has been non-existent for over two years. Today we have five current hospitality projects.
Business Expansion
I feel so positive about the industry that our business will be expanding. Conspectus will be opening a New York City office after the first of the year. Why New York? Well, we are already working with architects in the city. We are getting inquiries from others. We found Cliff Marvin, a specifier (currently in Alaska) with NYC connections. And NYC is a huge market for architectural firms, many that are world famous for magnificent designs.
I look forward to a new era for Conspectus and new opportunities as we approach the new year. While I won't forget 2010 as the worst in our company's history, I will remember that we survived, and prepared for the future rather than bemoaning the state of the construction industry and the economy.
Lift Your Spirits
For those of you that are still depressed about the current state of affairs, I recommend an uplifting song with music by Harold Arlen and lyrics by Johnny Mercer, first recorded in 1944 in the midst of World War II, when any glimmer of hope was welcome. It was popular enough that four artists recorded the song in the first year after it was written, each one topping the Billboard magazine charts.
So lift your spirits. Listen to something positive and adopt a new attitude. Here is a rendition of Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate the Positive, sung by Ella Fitzgerald.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BelFOlUcGDw
As the constant reminder, search for the ring tone and set it as your cell phone default. Inspire others every time they hear your phone.
David Stutzman