Childlike Wonder

In this ongoing series inspired by my mother's wisdom, I explore how her lessons continue to shape my approach to life and business, even after her passing.

During Mom’s Celebration of Life, I was struck by how much she meant to so many people. One moment, in particular, resonated deeply with me—my sister-in-law shared something that I had never fully articulated myself: one of the things she loved most about Mom was her unwavering childlike wonder. Whether it was the way her eyes would light up when greeting people, her love of games, or her ability to never take herself too seriously, Mom embodied a spirit of joy and curiosity that was infectious.

One of the most striking things about Mom, articulated by my sister-in-law, was how she greeted people—with eyes that lit up and undivided attention that made each person feel special. She wasn’t just saying hello; she was fully present, welcoming everyone with genuine warmth and enthusiasm. This simple act holds profound implications for business. Imagine applying this principle to our interactions with teams and clients—offering them our full attention and making them feel valued. By doing so, we foster deeper connections, create a more motivated and productive work environment, and build stronger, trust-based client relationships that lead to better results.

At work, it’s easy to fall into the trap of taking everything too seriously, letting stress and routine dull our creativity. But what if we held on to that sense of wonder? The next time you're faced with a challenging problem, try to approach it with the curiosity and playfulness of a child. Set aside what you think you know, and allow yourself to imagine new possibilities. You might just discover a solution that wasn’t obvious to your adult, and sometimes jaded, mind.

By embracing the qualities that made my mom so special—her childlike wonder, her genuine warmth, and her ability to be fully present—we can create a more positive, productive, and fulfilling environment in both our personal and professional lives.