I can’t believe I’m writing this – in my head, it was June yesterday – but the festive season is upon us. It’s time to get the lights out, hats on, decorations up and start the festivities!
I love this time of year at work. It’s certainly busy but it’s also a time to get the tunes playing and enjoy some quality time as a team before a well-deserved rest ahead of the new year.
In the hope of catching everyone slightly ahead of finalising festive plans, we wanted to share a few small things we do at Rubies in the Rubble to encourage you to live out your team values and question what and how you celebrate, too.
Our philosophy is something we call ‘goodism’. That means not settling for the same-old and instead opting for new ways that are ‘gooder’ both for people and our planet.
So, when it comes to the festive season, here are a few things we do.
- Get creative with team gifting: We love a secret Santa but rather than buying new, we want to encourage more creativity. So each gift (including its wrapping) needs to fit the brief of our values: resourceful, daring and personal. We’ve had music playlists, pre-loved goods, a homemade tablet… you name it. Guessing the sender always ends in a lot of laughs.
- Evaluate everything you have: The end of the year is a great way to go all Marie Kondo on your stocks and supplies. Give any excess to those in need before it passes its best before and be ready to start the new year feeling organised. There are many redistribution charities – such as City Harvest, FareShare and The Felix Project – who would love your support or excess stock, and will help making donations easy.
- Redesign end-of-year celebrations: At this time of year, a lot of charities are in desperate need of extra hands. Try switching your team day out to support a community project, food bank or organisation, with festive cheer and some music blasting. Of course, follow it up with a cosy pub session. It’s always fun to think differently about how to celebrate the festive season.
So this Christmas, do not just follow the norm of excessive or mindless consumption, but be conscious with your actions and question your team’s end of year traditions.
Live out your brand in every aspect and be the one to make a difference.
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