How to Create a Merry Christmas

December 20, 2010

Christmas is a Magical Time!

It's just what we need in these challenging economic times. Too often we, businesspeople need something to wake us up about its magic, and, when we do wake up, we focus on what is really important - making family, friends and employees happy. When we are focused enough on that goal, the tiring fuss of Christmas will not get to us. The best way to create merriness is by having meaningful conversations. We may even tell our family, friends and employees how much they mean to us, as well as buy them gifts. You and I know how special a gift of appreciation is.

The Big Secret of Dealing with People

The desire to be important and appreciated is the deepest urge in human nature said Dale Carnegie. William James called it a craving.

If you want to energize your team to adapt to what's required in 2011, or if you want to watch others feel good about themselves and see greater opportunities, then give them sincere appreciation, especially at Christmas. Write a sincere appreciation message in their cards. Speak about it at the Christmas party, and watch them glow! Your words could make a big difference to them. And of course, give appreciation to your children, spouse, father, mother, in-laws and friends. Watch what happens to you and them. Sure there are a few things they are not good at, improvements they could make but it's that way for you too. Believe me, others know.
Appreciation arouses enthusiasm among your people. Better yet, call a customer, just to tell them sincerely how much you appreciate their business and add what you like about them. If you're a little nervous about doing it, that's good. That means it's very meaningful to you and your sincerity will show.
 

One of the wonderful traditions we have in our home office is a draw for gifts (called Secret Santa). Everyone brings in a modest gift, places it under our Christmas tree and after our catered, home-cooked lunch by Pam (a wonderful lady who has been cooking for us for many years), we gather around the tree (about 25 to 30 of us) to begin the "chaos". My son, Kevin Jr., begins by reading the list of rules which has been growing by the years (people try to invent ways to get around them). His speech is a hilarious beginning. Then we draw numbers. When your number comes up, you can either pick a gift from under the tree or pick someone else's gift that has already been unwrapped. You can't believe how grown men and women joust over $25.00 gifts. It's a lot of fun and a lot of laughs! We always look forward to this fun gift exchange.

What ever you do to get people laughing and enjoying the Christmas spirit says a lot about you and the team, the environment and the values of the organization. Make sure in some small funny way the Grinch doesn't live at your place.

Who will you be at Christmas?

ACTIONS:

1. Create the spirit of Christmas. Tell at least 3 employees, friends and family what you appreciate about them, why you say it and give an example. You'll be creating a Merry Christmas for you and others you care about. Better yet - make this your big secret of success in 2011. Continually apply appreciation to your customers and employees.
    
2. Create a wonderful time with your family, friends and loved ones over the next couple of weeks. It doesn't always require money to do that.
    
3. Make time to relax, recharge and laugh a lot.
    

Looking forward to talking to you in the New Year about kicking off a great 2011 by facing the challenges of building your business, your team and yourself.

Merry Christmas and Happy 2011!

Have a wonderful holiday,