Was Scooge really so wrong? Christmas is expensive and stressful. It is also not optional. It comes at the end of every year whether you like it or not! 2011 was a tough year. It is very hard to get into the spirit of giving. I’d like to opt out this season. Bah humbug!

And yes, Scrooge was wrong. Generosity is a great business tool all year long. As a successful property manager, one of my greatest resources are the people I work with. My successful strategy includes paying my workers well and quickly. I treat them with consideration and respect. In return, they are loyal, fast responding and create a great environment for my tenants.

During the recent 100 mile per hour winds in California, we sustained a lot of damage on my properties. We had trees down, broken windows, roofs blown off, gates and garage doors torn off hinges. Thanks to all my wonderful handymen everything was fixed and cleaned up in a week. Several tenants commented on how quickly we responded.

So as this year winds down, I will be gifting my friends and family. I will also give generously to the people I work with and the charities I support in order to support the people who make my world a better place. Next year is right around the corner with challenges and hopefully great payoffs. I am ready. Bah humbug be gone!