What's on my mind? Hallmark holidays and happiness
Keri Gilder
Putting the power of the digital universe in the hands of our customers wherever, whenever and however they want.
Ok, first I’m going to say that I’ve never been a huge fan of what I deem the ‘hallmark holiday’ of February, Valentine’s Day. Like many holidays in the United States, it has turned into a money-making machine for restaurants and florists!
As a kid, it was always hit or miss as to whether you were going to get a Valentine or not and if you didn’t, it turned into a pretty sad day. I can only hope that it's more inclusive to all kids now.
Many years ago we decided that for Valentine’s Day in the Gilder house, we’d celebrate a different way. We would cut out the number of hearts that matched up to our kids' ages, multiply by two and write “I love you, because…” notes on them. We’d then stick them to their bedroom door the night before Valentine’s Day so they could wake up to their happy messages.
As the kids have got older, and even across the pond to the USA for University, we have kept the tradition. Tyson and I each wrote 20 for my son and 17 for my daughter last night.
It's such a fun exercise to take a moment to think about what you love about them. Their crazy curly hair, unique style, care for the cats and kindness toward others were among the pile this year. It takes the material aspect out of the equation and lets us focus on what really matters - letting our kids know why we love them. It is one time in the year we can be specific about our feelings.
At Colt, we also hit a bit of a holiday this past Friday with the mark of the 100th day post-acquisition of Lumen EMEA. We’ve made some major accomplishments in bringing our companies together.
Our Buddy program has helped over 1,200 people to fast-forward and get to know other parts of the business and develop relationships.
This past week we also announced our Coltie award winners and told all of Colt that they won, because of their values, leadership and ability to drive amazing outcomes.
So, for this Valentine’s Day, I encourage you to reach out to your colleague, boss, or even your customer or strategic partner and let them know why you like them.
“I like you because…”
It will make them feel good. You feel happy and it costs absolutely nothing.
Vice President-Global Marketing & Communications
9 个月Keri Gilder, hoping to see you at MWC and GTWN next week.
Business Owner at TKT home made mosla products
9 个月Great share Keri Gilder
Sr. Product Line Manager, Network Control and Automation at Nokia. Nokia Ombuds leader
9 个月Valentine Day as a celebration of "I like you because"... I love that ! Thank you for sharing!
Helping the world’s top CEOs magnetise their teams, reshape their industries, and leave a legacy that matters (whilst enjoying the journey!)
9 个月Embracing the essence of Valentine's Day through the lens of genuine appreciation and reflection is a leadership lesson in itself. Your tradition of 'I love you, because...' notes is a beautiful reminder of the power of recognition and personal connection—values that are crucial in both family life and the corporate world. As leaders, taking the time to articulate the specific traits we admire in our team members, colleagues, and partners can transform relationships and foster a culture of appreciation and growth. How might we extend this tradition beyond Valentine's Day to regularly affirm and celebrate the unique contributions of those around us?
Technology and business leader | Service Providers | MSP Global go-to-market leader @ F5
9 个月What a wonderful tradition! Thank you for sharing, Keri!