Impact Is Often Impromptu
Quit overthinking what has impact.
People often talk about the Disney Difference, but until you experience it, it may sound like a bunch of "princess and fairy tale nonsense" {as a friend once quipped}. Moments like our recent one sailing with Disney Cruise Line are what more organizations of all sizes need to realize cost nothing {yes, correct, $0}, yet mean absolutely everything. It's been a long week and a little levity can serve us all well, so what better time to reflect on this moment.
Early in October our family embarked on a long awaited and much needed sailing on Disney Fantasy. As we all know, the last year+ has been challenging in many unique ways. During that time Joe and I said final goodbyes to both of our last surviving grandparents as well as several friends. His grandma died on my birthday, with her funeral on his birthday. My grandpa's funeral ended up occurring during our planned trip to Walt Disney World, had already been cancelled due to global closures. Needless to say this was a welcomed opportunity for a dose of magic.
I could go on and on again about how perfectly executed everything was in the midst of many precautions and necessary modifications. However, one evening was beyond a highlight for us all. Dressed in our Halloween on the High Seas finest as the cast of Ratatouille, we entered our dining rotation that evening to applause from the cast that "the chef's have arrived!".
As they seated us, our incredible team instantly crafted a plan. Chef Nicholas Gordon was going to be told a food critic was dining there that evening. The food critic being my husband, whose title was confirmed by the document my daughter made him.
Late into the meal it was time. Here he came, fear in his eyes...yet also a hint of confusion as the kids and adults all sat together stifling giggles. And then it hit him the moment he saw the "official" paperwork". Laughter from everyone, celebration for pulling it off, and memories to last forever.
Too often individuals and organizations think they have to go over the top with expensive and elaborate plans to "woo" people. The reality is that it is often the unplanned gestures that are most authentic and impactful. Regardless of your title, career, or finances. That is the Disney Difference, time and time again.
{The added bonus moment? It was my Grandma's birthday; my forever partner in fun and all things pixie dust. And when we told Miguel how much we wish she could be here celebrating with us - while Grandpa likely would have stayed in the quiet room , he made sure to bring Mom a Mickey Ice Cream in her honor.}
Thank you and see you again real soon, Disney Cruise Line.
