I heard a concept recently that really stuck with me and seems important as we look at the new year ahead: We get to choose hard things.
It’s hard to control diet and exercise. It’s also hard to deal with the repercussions of not controlling them. It’s hard to go the extra mile to get something done on time. It’s also hard to let people down who are counting on you to get it done. It’s hard to be kind and calm when others are not. It’s also hard to deal with the aftermath of damaged relationships.
This kind of thinking will help me step up when I want to take the easy route. In 2026 let’s choose hard things!
Gratefully,
Spence (January 2026)
One day back in 2022, Spencer said in a staff meeting, “I want to think of a way to make billing a little nicer for our clients. Nobody likes to open a bill, especially for architectural services.” And thus, Spencerisms were born. That’s an internal name we initially gave these short notes Spencer writes to our clients each month, if they receive a bill. The name stuck, only because we couldn’t think of anything else that fit. We hope you’ll enjoy these bits of encouragement (or simple thoughts) Spencer shares each month.