If you’re like me, you’ve spent the past month juggling important work tasks with the viewing of World Cup games. I’m already feeling a little withdrawal, knowing there are only 3 matches left (2 that matter!). I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the joy I’m feeling over these weeks of intense ‘World Cupping’. It’s delivered so much – excellent football on the pitch, controversial calls, fantastic upsets, devastating losses, and joyous fans throughout. I’m particularly grateful for the Norwegian fans and their Rows, Yamine Lamal’s little brother, and The Cabo Verde goalkeeper Vozinha.
It’s remarkable how this event has fostered a deeper sense of community – globally, virtually, and in our own neighborhoods. Without attending even one match in person, I’ve experienced:
- Reconnecting with some of my own soccer teammates from college via a lively group chat during matches
- Sharing the highs and lows of Erling Haaland’s journey through the eyes of my 9 and 10 yr old Norwegian nephews
- Engaging with random folks on match days - the various jerseys, watch parties and interactions around games are both fun and inspiring
As I tend to do, I can’t help but think about the lessons this experience gives us as leaders of teams and organizations. In today’s world of intense economic and global pressures, the race to optimize and monetize AI, challenges of ongoing work environments (hybrid, remote, in office and all of the above), and more…I come back to the simple but essential things we need to provide for our people. And I think right now it’s about Community and Joy.
We need community. We need connection. It doesn’t matter if you’re fully remote or see each other every day, intentionally building community and real connection will bring joy. And doing our jobs with joy makes us more effective. Everyone may do this differently – but the key is to be intentional and consistent about it. How are you sparking community and joy in your teams?