Frosty the snowman
Knew the sun was hot that day,
So he said, “Let’s run
And we’ll have some fun
Now before I melt away.”*
3 reasons to admire Frosty the Snowman:
#1. Optimism.
I admire Frosty.
Melting would ruin most people’s day.
I bet you wouldn’t have fun if you were melting. But, in fact, you are melting. In addition, there’s an expiration date on opportunity.
Don’t let frailty drag down your attitude.
Do what you are putting off.
- Pick up the phone right now and let an employee know they matter. “I appreciate you.”
- Finish something and check it off your list.
- Give someone a second chance.
- Send a note to a family member. Say, “I’m thinking of you.”
- Manage out someone with compassion and optimism.
Use frailty to accentuate opportunity.
Enjoy making a difference before you melt.
#2. Enjoyment.
“Let’s run and have some fun.”
The ability to enjoy is most relevant in turbulence, uncertainty, and stress.
- Somber-faced leaders seem constantly annoyed even if they aren’t.
- Enjoyment is energy but pessimism is deadly.
- People are annoying when you focus on faults and weaknesses.
Project: List each team member on a piece of paper. Alongside their name list two strengths. (Don’t add weaknesses.) Keep the list on the corner of your desk.
#3. Dance.
Maybe dancing is too much to ask, but do you want curmudgeon written on your headstone?
Brighten up once or twice today. It won’t kill you even if you are melting.
Would it offend you if your headstone read, “Jolly happy soul,” instead of, “Best frown in town?”
Project: Put a smile on your face. A fake smile will do. Now look in the mirror. If you have the gift of frowning, you think you’re smiling but you’re not.
How might you emulate Frosty?
Bonus material:
10 Ways to Become an Optimistic Leader pdf (buscouncil.ca)