Bring the light in the dark of winter

Energising ourselves and our customers in the darkest time of the year

This week in the golfing world, we saw Shane Lowry win The Open in Northern Ireland. This is one of the most prestigious and important golf tournaments in the calendar year. Lowry, from the Republic of Ireland was cheered and celebrated by the locals as he maintained his lead during shocking weather while his rivals capitulated in the high winds, rain, and generally miserable conditions.

Lowry managed to regulate his own emotions under the pressure, keep things simple, and execute during the terrible weather. It was a great achievement. And, in an era of ultra-professionalism, it was this beer drinking, happy-go-lucky, family man that was able to become the Champion Golfer of the Year.

The twittersphere has gone mad on this story in golf circles. This little clip said it all (warning: explicit language!)

The imagery of Rory Mclroy (the Northern Irishman, who was playing on his home course during The Open, but failed miserably) is seen waking up early, hitting the gym, and practicing like mad. This is contrasted to Lowry celebrating with a pint in a pub. It’s good for a giggle, but in my world,  there is a noticeable lesson here.

Lowry celebrating his win in the pub with his mates and a bunch of locals. Fun isn't dead in professional sport, but is it dead in our professional setting?

In the winter months it is tough to keep energy levels up. It is even tougher to keep our customers and teams engaged.

A recent study suggested that six out of 10 of us suffer from lowered moods and motivation in the winter months. Being able to keep our energy up, and that of our customers is critical as this effects business results. I have personally found that appointment cancellations almost double during the winter months.

Shane Lowry certainly does the work. There is no way he could compete in the ultra-competitive world of Professional Golf if he didn’t. But he also has fun. He brings sunshine into the room. He has a positive energy and a humility about him. And, most of all, he doesn’t take the job or himself too seriously. Often, this attitude can be mistaken for not caring. But, if we can keep things light, while doing the work, we will boost the mood, motivation, and engagement of those around us.