That's not the kind of ride I'm looking for

Let’s get this out of the way now – Die Hard is a Christmas movie.

Yes, the internet is full of people arguing about this, with many people (incorrectly) trying to find a way to convince people that it’s not.  Of course, they are wrong.

In related news, Die Hard 2 is also a Christmas movie.

Annual tradition

As is the annual tradition, I am watching Die Hard on Christmas Eve, and then watching the sequel on Boxing Day.  Both times, I will be on the couch with my wife and our dog, Basil.

The only other tradition is going to see Pete Tong in concert on the last Saturday of his annual tour.  Beyond this, I don’t have any other festive traditions.

I am not a fan of Christmas.  It is not a time that I enjoy as many others do.

We’re not all the same

I often say that you don’t know what someone else is going through.  

While Christmas is a joyous time for many people, it's important to acknowledge that not everyone feels the same about the festive season.

There could be a number of reasons why someone doesn’t enjoy Christmas, such as loneliness, financial stress, or a reminder of grief.   Alternatively, a lack of celebration could simply be down to religious or cultural differences.

All inclusive HR

As an employer, it is essential for you to be mindful and aware of your team members’ feelings and circumstances at all times, but especially during this time of year.

Understanding that people may have different experiences and emotions can help to promote empathy and support for those who may not enjoy Christmas as much as others do.

In the workplace, it can be difficult to get away from the festivities.  The Christmas tree goes up; the mood becomes a bit more jovial; there could be a ‘secret Santa’ draw; Christmas cards are written; and the team Christmas party takes place.

However, not everyone will be comfortable in partaking, and it’s important to make sure that such activities are optional, not obligatory.

Your people are your biggest asset.

I say this all the time – your people are your biggest asset, and you should treat them as such.  The key to good leadership is knowing (or at least taking the time to find out) how your staff feel.

In any case, even if they do not like Christmas, people need a rest, and often the festive season is the best time to do this.

Christmas may not be a happy time for some, but a team member knowing that they work in an all-inclusive workplace where their feelings are taken into consideration can often be the best gift.

I can help.

One of the things I support clients with is workplace culture.  

HR is not all about sackings or grievances.  Often it is about creating a culture where the employer and the employee are working in harmony, and everyone’s feelings are listened to.

‍

If your business is growing and you want to make sure that 2024 starts on the best foot, please get in touch for an informal chat about how me and my team can support your growth plans.

Thank you

This is a great opportunity to thank you, the readers. Thank you for reading my blogs, reading my emails, and engaging with my social media posts.

Thank you to all my wonderful clients, both new and long-standing - it's been a great year and I look forward to seeing what the new year brings for us.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank my team: Jessica Pilling, who has just completed two years with us; and Shona Hands who is coming up to six months with us.  

I would also like to thank my virtual assistant Louise Roberts and marketing support Gus Bhandal for their part in helping AJB HR Consultancy Services to grow in 2023.

In addition, thank you to my business coach Hana Smiddy of ActionCOACH Warwick who has helped to make 2023 a great year, and is helping to make 2024 even better.

Finally, I would like to thank my wife Denise for her unwavering support and love.

Don’t forget the title

The title of this blog is from Die Hard 2.  The news reporter Samantha Coleman says: “you give me this story and I'll have your baby”,

to which John McClane (played by Bruce Willis) replies: “That's not the kind of ride I'm looking for.”