The Gift of Christmas in July
After the many celebrations of our nation's 250th anniversary on July 4th, I find myself noticing signs and announcements for another festive occasion: Christmas in July. It is a long-standing tradition in many parts of the country. In fact, the efforts of American retailers to sell Christmas merchandise during July date back to the 1880s. Some early birds even take advantage of this time of year to get a head start on their holiday shopping for December.
Christmas in July may seem especially appealing these days, particularly for those who missed celebrating the holidays in their traditional way over the past several years, as well as for those of us who have experienced severe storms, flooding, fires and tornadoes. Perhaps that is why I find myself thinking so often about being with family and friends back home, enjoying my grandmother's homemade ravioli and Christmas cookies, and stopping at my Aunt's bakery, Capri, in Dearborn, Michigan, for her homemade pizza, bread and pepperoni rolls.
As a career and placement professional for many years, I have also found myself reflecting on what Christmas in July and the New Work World might have in common.
At first glance, connecting these two ideas may seem a bit unconventional. Yet if you'll stay with me for a moment, I believe you'll see that some timeless thoughts about Christmas offer meaningful lessons for navigating today's New Work World.
1. "Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas." (Calvin Coolidge)
Our state of mind is more important in the New Work World than ever before. With so much change happening around us, navigating uncertainty can feel overwhelming and filled with frustration and fear. How will you protect your own sense of peace and goodwill? How will you project those qualities during interviews if you've been affected by layoffs or have endured multiple rejections? Will you extend mercy to yourself, or to a friend or loved one who is facing difficult circumstances?
2. "Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful." (Norman Vincent Peale)
During interviews, I often ask candidates, "If you could wave a magic wand and create the perfect job, what would it look like?" Their answers provide valuable insight into their passions, dreams and purpose. As the Good Witch tells Dorothy at the end of The Wizard of Oz, "You've always had the power." You have the power to shape your own story throughout the year. Embrace the spirit of Christmas, wave your own magic wand over your work world, and believe in your ability to make it something truly beautiful.
3. "I will honor Christmas in my heart and try to keep it all year." (Charles Dickens)\
Christmas has long been a season of gathering with loved ones, giving generously, preparing meaningful meals and reminding others how much they matter. But what if we carried that spirit with us all year long? How might it transform our quality of life?
Charles Dickens also wrote A Tale of Two Cities, whose famous opening reminds us of life's contrasts: "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times... it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness." Even during our darkest moments, what if we intentionally embraced the hope, kindness and generosity that Christmas represents? How might that influence our relationships and the opportunities we create in the New Work World?
4. "At Christmas, all roads lead home." (Marjorie Holmes)
The holidays always bring me back to memories of my childhood home in a Detroit suburb and the wonderful meals my grandmother prepared on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Perhaps Christmas in July can also remind us to come home to who we truly are. What if we focused on becoming the very best version of ourselves? We can take a personal journey inward, discovering our unique gifts, talents and purpose. Then, by sharing those gifts, we can help others along their own journeys of growth and fulfillment.
5. "Mankind is a great, an immense family. ... This is proved by what we feel in our hearts at Christmas." (Pope John XXIII)
What if we applied the idea of "family" to everyone within the New Work World? Each of us possesses unique gifts that can benefit others, and together we help shape the future. What might happen if we consistently approached our work with generosity, compassion and a genuine desire to contribute? How might that transform not only our own careers, but the world of work around us?
This July, let the spirit of Christmas inspire you as you navigate both the literal and figurative storms of life. Let Christmas in July serve as a reminder that a Christmas state of mind, one rooted in hope, kindness and generosity, can positively transform your work world. It can guide you home to your best self and empower you to make a meaningful contribution to your New Work World family and beyond.
