As I type this at my desk, a naked Douglas fir eagerly awaits its decorations. What should be an iconic token of the Christmas spirit, instead more closely resembles an environmental statement. Truthfully, we can view its bare branches as a symbol of neglecting simple tasks.
Between hosting friends and family, shopping for gifts, and decorating our own homes; the neglected office becomes a place where Christmas spirit lies barren. An office vacant of holiday cheer indicates the values of gratitude, giving, and coming together are reserved only for our personal lives. But are they not central to a well-run organization?
Per usual, delegating holiday tasks wasn’t met with enthusiasm across the leadership team of Eric, Dad, and myself. However, these inconveniences were viewed as necessary in transforming the office into a more welcoming and playful work environment. After frequent reminders, trips to the store, and solicitation of family members, we were on track to spread some holiday cheer at Ablesoft.
Follow me to join our festive journey below:
First stage: unboxing while pretending to be excited. (ft. Sister Caitlin)
Second stage: arguments on décor location and distractions by non-contributors. (Ft. Sally, Noel and Eric)
Third stage: making progress amidst the chaos.
Fourth stage: things are starting to come together for the great reveal….
Fifth stage: the final product.
Sixth stage: denial of prior ill-feelings toward decorating and admiration from afar.
Like most dreaded tasks, the actual process was less painful and dare I say, even fun. The results were worth the effort to boost office morale and lift the spirits of our downtown pedestrians.
Now excuse me, I have a tree to decorate.
—Ben
Douglas. The bare fir.