Life Lessons from Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer
Jason Orloske, MPM, PMP, CSM, CPMOP
Strategic Project Portfolio and PMO Leader, driving efficiency and value from complex initiatives and building high-performance project organizations ~ Author ~ Blogger ~ Presenter ~ Adventure Racer
Last night I popped some popcorn and sat down with my boys, ages 9 and 6, to watch the timeless classic Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer. My kids have watched it every Christmas season, but it's been years since I have seen it. Watching brought me back to my youth when I would be glued to the TV wide-eyed with my parents.
Last night, however, I had a new perspective and appreciation for the film. There are many life lessons Rudolph and his friends teach us. Even though released in 1964, the messages are the same today.
Don't hide who you are; your difference can be your strength. From the moment Rudolph was born, he and his parents tried to hide the fact he had a red nose. His nose made him different, and because of that Rudolph couldn't join in any reindeer games. However, in the end his red nose helped Santa navigate through a blizzard, thus saving Christmas. Don't let others define you. Even if they think something is different, it can ultimately be your strength.
Do what makes you happy and creates personal success. Hermey the Elf didn't like making toys. Since all other elves loved making toys, Hermey was expected to also. His dream, however, was to be a dentist and he was willing to leave the village to pursue it. Find what makes you happy and what you will be successful.
Face your fears. Rudolph left the village with Hermey and was gone for a long time. He faced his fears when he returned to the village, because he knew his nose would be ridiculed. Once he found out his parents had left looking for him, he went out again to face the dreaded Abominable Snowman. Though he was afraid, he faced his fears and did what he knew was right.
Deliver on your promises. This for me was the biggest lesson and pointed it out to my children. Rudolph came upon the Island of Misfit Toys where toys that don't quite work or look right end up. All they wanted was a home for Christmas. Rudolph promised when he left that he would return. On Christmas Eve, he did just that. He delivered on his promise and got the toys to new homes.
It's funny how a children's movie can be so nostalgic, but can also teach you some very important life lessons.