Story: This past weekend, Canadian air traffic controllers in Edmonton sent pizza to their counterparts in Anchorage, Alaska, who are working without a paycheck due the government shutdown in the U.S. According to various media outlets, Canadian ATCs have sent “pizza love” to at least 41 American towers to date, and predictably, the response has been overwhelmingly positive for all. Other than the fact a vast majority of us enjoy pizza, I’m always struck by how small gestures like this have such an impact. Why?
Key Point: It really matters when other people compassionately think about us. That is not a new revelation, of course. So if not, why don’t we do it more often? Everyday we have an opportunity to send some form of “pizza love.” I don’t want to disrespect the donut, gelato, or any other digestible item. It could be anything that says, “We/I know you’re experiencing something difficult, and thinking about you. How might we/I help?” Think about departments or divisions in your organization that are rattled by a business challenge or personal circumstance. It really matters that you intentionally recognize the situation. When we genuinely express our compassion and care, it is more than an act of kindness. It binds us together in the most human sustainable way, and adds to our togetherness. So small, and always surprisingly so big.
Actions you can take:
- Send some “pizza love” to some group/or person in your organization this week. It’s just a click or phone call to make it so. Don’t use budget as an excuse not to. Just do it.
- While you’re at it this week, maybe call your mom or dad and thank them too. They did the best they knew how. Lucky you.
A moment for Pizza Love in Leadership,
Lorne
One Millennial View: The same people that think “pizza love” is a little cheesy are usually the ones that don’t deliver their piece of the pie. All terrible puns aside, these small gestures are cleary big enough to make international headlines. While your company may not make the news, if it’s free food for a good cause, someone is likely to at least write home about it.
– Garrett
Blog 958
Edited and published by Garrett Rubis.