When You Think You're Done, Try For "One?More"

Think about your biggest win from last year. What made it memorable? Was it the goal itself?—?or the journey that got you there? Chances are, it’s not the metrics or deadlines you recall most vividly, but the moments that brought those goals to life: the stories, struggles, and small victories along the way.

At Placers, we’ve learned that tying goals to a meaningful theme transforms how we approach work and life. Themes create stories we can rally behind, turning abstract ideas into something we feel, see, and experience every day.

During the 2008/2009 recession, our year’s theme of an Old Fashioned Road trip was symbolized by a road trip from Delaware to the Florida Keys?—?a dream of hope and reward during tough times. However, much like that year, we found ourselves stuck at a symbolic rest stop in North Carolina, unable to reach our destination. The weight of the recession and unmet goals defined that year. In contrast, another year drew inspiration from Oh, the Places You’ll Go by Dr. Seuss, embodying promise, adventure, and exploration. Placers, then in its teenage years, embraced bold ideas, growth challenges, and a spirit of whimsy. The wisdom of Dr. Seuss fit our journey perfectly, and to this day, I gift the book to graduates and retirees as a reminder to dream big and embrace what’s next.

Themes resonate because they transform abstract goals into something tangible and memorable. Through visuals, songs, skits, and stories, they engage our senses and emotions, ensuring ideas stick. After all, no one remembers “the best spreadsheet” they’ve ever seen, but a story? A theme? Those linger. They weave meaning into the everyday, turning strategies into shared experiences that inspire action.

When done right, themes bring energy and clarity to work, telling the story of the company and its people in a way that goals or OKRs often can’t. Even as Placers’ founder?—?someone who thinks of this company as my third child?—?I sometimes forget last quarter’s objectives. But themes? They’re unforgettable, and they help the team stay focused and connected, too.

This year, Placers’ theme is The Power of One More, inspired by Ed Mylett’s book. It’s a principle rooted in AA, where the goal is simply to make it one more day sober. For us, it means going beyond what’s expected: making one more call, sending one more email, or taking one more step toward our goals. It’s a reminder that success is often just one extra effort away.

This theme also reflects who we are. Placers thrives on risk-taking, teamwork, and service. In our 52 years, hard work, skill, and a smile have always set us apart. The Power of One More perfectly captures our culture and drives us forward, aligning with our journey and the values that define us.

To bring this to life, imagine a birthday party where kids take turns hitting a pi?ata. Each swing brings them closer, but it’s the final blow?—?after persistence?—?that spills the candy everywhere. At our Town Hall, we embraced this spirit when Sam Ide, our Team leader/ official Town Hall MC, dressed as a pi?ata. With light taps and lots of laughs, it was a playful reminder that persistence, collaboration, and that one more effort are what make even the biggest goals achievable.

“You must tune out the naysayers and all the negative distractions to focus on busting your pi?ata wide open. You’ll feel disoriented at times, doubt may creep into your mind, and you may think that your goal is not worth it. Until you learn how to win those battles, you’ll never enjoy what your pi?ata holds for you.”?—?Ed Mylett

For me, The Power of One More holds an even deeper meaning: the possibility that the “one more” might be the last. What if this were the last call with an aging parent? The last leadership meeting? How would I show up differently? Could I be more present, more engaged, more in the moment? This perspective echoes the idea of memento mori?—?a reminder that life is finite, so we must seize each moment fully. It’s not morbid; it’s a call to live right now.

Have you considered a theme for yourself or your team? At Placers, we’re each choosing our own “One More” word to guide us through the year ahead. My word is Accountability. For me, it’s about empowering others to create the life and success they envision, while holding myself and our Placers community accountable to The Power of One More. Together, we’ll push beyond limits, take that extra step, and make 2025 one where we all thrive.

So, what will your “One More” be? Reply and let me know.

Until next time, friends.

Chris“You must tune out the naysayers and all the negative distractions to focus on busting your pi?ata wide open. You’ll feel disoriented at times, doubt may creep into your mind, and you may think that your goal is not worth it. Until you learn how to win those battles, you’ll never enjoy what your pi?ata holds for you.”?—?Ed Mylett

For me, The Power of One More holds an even deeper meaning: the possibility that the “one more” might be the last. What if this were the last call with an aging parent? The last leadership meeting? How would I show up differently? Could I be more present, more engaged, more in the moment? This perspective echoes the idea of memento mori?—?a reminder that life is finite, so we must seize each moment fully. It’s not morbid; it’s a call to live right now.

Have you considered a theme for yourself or your team? At Placers, we’re each choosing our own “One More” word to guide us through the year ahead. My word is Accountability. For me, it’s about empowering others to create the life and success they envision, while holding myself and our Placers community accountable to The Power of One More. Together, we’ll push beyond limits, take that extra step, and make 2025 one where we all thrive.

So, what will your “One More” be? Reply and let me know.

Until next time, friends.

Chris