XIPE: The Corporate Gap Year and Professional Renewal

Organizational Culture and Approach – Dios los hace y ellos se juntan.

Growing up in Southern California made me one of those fortunate souls who had Disneyland in their backyard and could frequent often. I visited Disneyland for the first time when I was only a toddler. My mom loved showing house guests a picture that captured my horrified expression at the sight of Mickey Mouse. Admittedly, the photo was hilarious, and thankfully, that first impression did not scar me for life. Soon after that picture was taken, I became a Disney enthusiast. 

As an adult, I still love Disney, although not for the obvious reasons. I am a fan of their corporate culture and their magical logistics. When MOV told me we would be celebrating his birthday at Disney World this year, I went with the motion. It had been years since we last visited Disney, and well, I am sure there is an unwritten rule somewhere that stipulates that the birthday boy chooses the celebratory activities. 

I am happy to report Disney did not disappoint, they delivered as per usual. From the point they picked us up from the airport, to when they returned us. The Magical Express and Magic Bands, along with their top-notch customer service made the experience seamless and stress-free, they allowed us to immerse ourselves into their world of dreams and imagination, their method in doing so, impeccable as ever. 

It was rainy season in Florida during our visit, as it can be anticipated Tlaloc (the Aztec god of rain, known for his agile approach in making life happen) was ever so present during our visit. Tlaloc was self-evident in more than just the conventional way, however. As an example, I recognized him in how Disney adopted a winning approach in bringing life to a unique experience. The smooth manner the cast members took in addressing us, and how they resolved every concern effortlessly, making it seem like we were really dealing with magic. 

I began analyzing the behind the scenes work that made our experience possible. The training, process improvements, and culture development was evident. Finding the people who believe and live out the mission of the organization, that’s where the magic really begins. As they say, make sure you have the right people on the ‘magic bus,’ so to speak.

As we made our way around the Magic Kingdom, we walked rapidly to my favorite ride ever, Peter Pan (don’t judge me), we noticed an employee who was being closely monitored by a member of leadership. The leader was talking to her about the importance of her role in making the guests’ experience possible. The patience in his voice was noticeable, their belief in the culture was palpable. After Peter Pan, we made our way around many other rides within the castle, and we were lucky enough to run into the coaching session a few more times. Tlaloc hard at work, the rain, nonstop, with its relentless approach in bringing life - much like the Disney leader who was invested in ensuring their cast member understood her role and performed it well - was at work. The employee asked questions of the leader as they walked around, this went on for hours, which led me to wonder how many organizations out there are as meticulous at taking care of their brand and culture? It made me think of organizations that struggle with cultural issues, and how little time they’ve invested in the formation of their organizational culture. If organizations don’t take the time to carefully and intentionally form a culture, then train and hold employees accountable to the desired behavior, a counter-culture will inevitably develop. Most often, this strategy (or lack thereof) backfires.

To my corporate dreamers who still believe in magic, know that working for a healthy, non-toxic environment is not just a dream, it is entirely possible. It only takes intentional work that starts from the top and is enforced daily by members of leadership. For our leaders who yearn to form a winning culture, believe in your values, find your believers, train, develop, and hold each other accountable. You will see the impact this has on your business as a whole, and the successful result will have on your customer base. Like Disney, on this occasion, you will have happy customers validating your approach.

Tlaloc literary rained on our parade during our last day at the Magic Kingdom. As I bid farewell to the Disney gang, my heart rejoiced at all the dreams I had during my stay, visions that ranged from magical worlds down to the extraordinary organizations out there forming and following their vision for a healthy organizational culture. 

The intention behind creating healthy environments does not only apply to the workplace, it is also true for our community service, where you, just like Tlaloc, are an influential leader with the strength to bring a healthy environment to life. If you work, volunteer, and exist in such a situation, embrace it dearly, as it is unique, and praise-worthy. 

Stream of Thought

“We merely dream,

We only rise from a dream,

It is all as a dream.”

The ancient poets knew too well.

Raining in,

newer dreamers,

find their world,

and people too.

It’s not only creativity,

nor just the art of innovation,

but the step within their efforts,

the finesse in their approach,

and in the ultimate purse.

Embracing, living,

sharing in the field of vision,

always demonstrating,

how to rise, advance,

and ultimately build up.

Creating your world,

your culture,

where you, and them, and all,

thrive and illustrate,

the magic in the possible,

with the right intention,

time and dedication.