How To Think Like Santa by M Ryan Taylor
Copyright © 2008 M Ryan Taylor

World View:

• Always remember that children are important. Children are the hope of tomorrow.
• Ally or associate with an idea that is greater than yourself. In Santa’s case, Christmas, of course.
• Strive to be a reflection of Christ-like, God-like principles and you can’t go wrong.
• Everyone knows the “naughty or nice” list is a fiction. Who do you know that ever got coal in their stocking on Christmas? Don’t judge, give freely; you never know how it might effect the naughtiest among us.
• Remember, we are here to serve one another.

Your Vision:

• Think Big, “Castles in the Sky” Big.
• Imagine the effect you can have globally and then start locally.

Patience:

• Start with ’stocking’ sized projects and work up to bigger things.
• Not all of us have hundreds of years to accomplish our goals, but we need to remember that it still might take us a while to get our footing.
• Refine your skills. It takes time, but quality work is always in demand.
• Remember, some things are worth keeping around just because they are beautiful, like Reindeer and an open-air sleigh, even if they are no longer practical.
• Sometime you will encounter tight spots and squeezes (like chimneys); cinch up your belt and push on through.

Leadership:

• Take the reigns; a slight deviation in direction can have you ending up hundreds of miles from your destination, you must constantly be checking ‘north’ and making course corrections.
• Once you get to a certain point you will realize that you can no longer do it all on your own.
• Don’t underestimate the importance of well-trained/enthusiastic elves (your support team).
• Always give your elves credit where credit is due.
• Hire the best workers regardless of race.
• Knowing a second or third language can always come in handy.

Attitude:

• It is better to give than to receive. Still, be gracious when you are on the receiving end. Do you think St. Nick really wants all those cookies?
• Go open source. A free and open exchange of ideas only boosts creativity.
• Remember, imitation is the most sincere form of praise.
• Answer the call, no matter what people call you (Santa, Father Christmas, St. Nick, Kris Kringle, etc.).

Location:

• Remember that you can have a big impact on the world no matter where you live.

Image:

• Don’t be afraid to stand out in a crowd.
• People will, at times, question your sanity, however, GOODWILL never goes out of style.

Reaching People:

• Most people are children at heart, delight them.
• The things that delight you are likely to delight others – share your gifts/strengths/hobbies – you never know where they might take you.
• Converts to your cause are more effective proselyters than any marketer could ever be.
• Volunteers, proxies and delegation are key factors to growing any great idea.

Dealing With Bad Press:

• Remember, some people (puritans) won’t like you no matter how good your intentions are. Keep going!
• Also, some people will try to separate you from your message (Christmas). Stay true!
• There are others who simply will not believe in you. What does that matter if YOU believe in yourself and what your are trying to accomplish? Press on!

Well-Being:

• Though you may not need a place as remote as the north pole, take time for solitude and reflection.
• Innocence never grows old.