The power of surprises

I'm working frantically to finalize our program by the middle of September, including several tips on making our lives more enjoyable. Surprises and novelty are amongst the joys of being alive.

Every now and then we need to revert to something unusual. When the kick comes unexpectedly, we are surprise. It is known that differences add depth and enjoyment to life. Take good meals, for example, an earthy casserole tastes better if it is combined with a salad; a savory entrée with a sweet dessert; wine with cheese and apples and grapes. Variety builds up enchantement.

On one side, we like predictability so we can feel secure and plan accordingly, then something kicks in. An external change or the need for chaos. Yes, predictability builds up order, and we can be more efficient. Even so, we can only take so much predictability; it kills our creativity and innovation.

So, we need to revert to something unusual. We all like to be surprised, we don’t acknowledge it that much to the originator, nor we consciously make an effort to be that surprise in another person’s life. When you do something unusual for someone else, you surprise them, they don’t expect it and it triggers a chain of reactions that keeps them alert. It makes their life more enjoyable. Surprises keep us agile and alert. Companies that surprise us capture a space in our minds. They raise above the rest, they treat us in unusual ways, either as customers, employees, suppliers or as part of their community. We need to add more of that, both on our businesses and at our personal level.

Think about surprising someone, and be creative… you will enjoy the process as much as the receiver. Just remember, you can be the change you want in the world. Start now.

Just as I was going to post this, my friend Janet sends me this surprising wedding entry ... make sure you check it out...




and if you have any other surprises, share them up, we'll love to see them.