It’s the most wonderful time of the year – a time when people, regardless of their religious affiliations, seem to draw closer to one another (notwithstanding the occasional trampling at Wal-Mart). The symbols of Christmas are of deep and abiding religious importance to Christians all over the world, but they may also some clues as to how to successfully lead an organization. Humor me:
Star of Bethlehem – This Eastern star is said to have led the three wise men to the birthplace of Christ, where they showered him with gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Organizations ought to have their own guiding star in the form of vision, values, and corporate good citizenship. These organizational truths serve as a decision making rubric when the business is presented with tough decisions and also ensure that the business does not lose its bearings for reasons of financial expediency.
Manger/Nazareth – Mary and Joseph journeyed from Nazareth to Bethlehem to be taxed, but as there was no room in the inn, they were forced to seek shelter in a stable. Jesus was the son of a humble carpenter, was born in a barn, and was from one of the most unspectacular cities in the area. This is reconfirmed to us while reading John 1:46, “Nazareth! Can anything come from there?” Nathaniel asked. “Come and see,” said Phillip. Leaders everywhere can take from this the value of humility and the greatness that can spring from small beginnings.
Angels – When angels initially appear to the “shepherds watching over their flocks by night”, they are described as being “sore afraid” (hard to blame them, really). However, the angels go on to expound, saying that they bring “glad tidings of great joy.” This simple act of thorough communication turned fear into joy. A great change was about to take place, one that would forever alter the lives of the shepherds, but with enough information, appropriately couched, they felt only relief. Leaders everywhere could learn from this simple lesson on communicating to assuage fear.
Gifts – The wise men, who had to travel a great distance to reach the Christ child, still saw fit to burden their camels with gifts. To me, this speaks to many things – giving our best, going the extra mile, inconveniencing ourselves for the good of others, and rewarding greatness. Imagine if we all treated each other with the same respect and dignity with which these great men honored this little baby.
Jesus – The Christ-child, like all babies, symbolizes hope, opportunity and the promise of greater things. More importantly, Christians believe that this baby in particular represented an opportunity for Mankind writ large to be free from bondage. As you and those with whom you work celebrate the holiday season, I hope you will take a similar sense of hope and newness into the coming year. Each new year and for that matter, each new day, are an opportunity to reinvent ourselves and our work lives.
Whatever holidays you celebrate during the month of December, we at IncBlot wish you a meaningful and restorative break. May you close out 2012 with those that you love and bring in 2013 with a bang!