Pub. 6 2018 Issue 3

www.uba.org 4 The Bottom Line By Howard Headlee, President, Utah Bankers Association A s I share in the struggle of loved ones whose memory is failing them, I am reminded of the wonder of remember- ing. I’m not talking about recalling names and facts and figures, I am talking about re-discovering things that we once knew but have somehow forgotten. Like remembering how much we enjoy certain experiences, like the beauty of a sunset at the beach, or the taste of certain foods or the company of childhood friends. Remembering the feelings I had when I went to college, graduated, got my first job, or had my first child, as I now re-live those experiences with my chil- dren. Remembering combines all the excitement of the present with rich memories of the past. It’s the wonderful texture that comes with age. When I am reminded of something that I really appreciate I often wonder how it was possible that I could have forgotten? We get distracted, we focus on other things. We sometimes focus more on the negative things that demand our immediate attention. I know that has been true with me ever since the financial crisis. I had forgotten what a blessing it is to work in the banking in- dustry. But fortunately, I was recently reminded while speaking with a group of college students exploring what they would do with their newly acquired skills and knowledge. I can vividly remember that difficult time in life trying to bal- ance my financial obligations and professional aspirations with a deep inner desire to make a difference and help others. As I discussed the role of banks with these young students, and saw their eyes light up as we explored the many different ways banks help people realize their dreams and the emphasis we place on building our communities through service and financial sup- port, I realized that this is exactly what so many people, young and old, are looking for today. The reaction of these students reminded me of why I love serving and promoting the banking industry. The media blame- game associated with the financial crisis distracted many of us from what we all really love about banking: our greatest success is only realized when we help others achieve their dreams. We are living in a great age of opportunity. Looking past the current political turmoil, the fact remains that there is nothing any determined American cannot achieve. And real, FDIC insured banks and their amazing employees are at the ready to help people save, build and achieve their dreams. I love sharing this vision with bank employees. For some it is a revelation, for others it is a reminder of their passion for this work. Communities cannot succeed without strong banks, and banks cannot succeed without strong communities. Our for- tunes are inextricably tied. Every bank employee, regardless of their job description provides a key ingredient in this recipe for success; and therefore, every employee should be proud of the role they are playing in the success we are seeing all around us. If the last ten years have caused you to forget what you love about banking, take time to remember! There has never been a better time for bankers, customers and communities to dream. n REMEMBER