Embracing the (Extra)ordinary: A Call to Action

Imagine being a new employee in a department of 100 people, navigating your way through unfamiliar faces and spaces. One day, you find yourself in the coffee room, noticing a large gathering with drinks. As you make your coffee, questions swirl in your mind: “What’s happening? Am I welcome? Can I use this room during the celebration?”

These are people you’ve seen but haven’t yet met. They notice you but respectfully give you space, a common practice in Finland to ensure comfort. Amidst your curiosity, one person steps out of the ordinary, approaches you, and kindly explains the situation, offering you a drink. In that moment, you feel welcomed and included.

This simple yet extraordinary act of noticing your unfamiliarity and bridging the gap is powerful. Such gestures, though seemingly small, can open many doors and foster deeper connections. While it’s okay to operate in the ‘ordinary’ mode, it’s the (extra)ordinary efforts that truly enhance engagement and lead to better outcomes.

During my talk at Business Day on October 10th, I emphasized this theme, urging both university communities and business industries to embrace (extra)ordinary steps in everyday life. Let’s make a conscious effort to go beyond the ordinary and create a more connected and engaged environment.

Thank you.

17.10.2024

Thanks Päivi for the picture evidence of the day!