Holiday Movie Inspiration (Part 1)
I love watching holiday movies this time of year with my family. Cuddling up on the couch with a warm blanket and a cup of eggnog has become one of our favorite traditions and a sure way to get into the holiday spirit. Over the years, I’ve realized that many of these movies also offer simple but powerful reminders about leadership, culture, and how we show up for others.
I couldn’t decide on just one movie, so I’m turning it into a two-part leadership message. Today, I’ll share two lessons from Elf and two from National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Check back next week for insights from two more holiday classics.
Having holiday fun with Buddy and Clark
Elf
Will Ferrell’s performance as Buddy the Elf is unforgettable, and the movie has more than earned its place as a holiday classic. Beyond the laughs, there are a couple of leadership lessons that stand out.
1. Make Work Fun
There’s a scene where Santa returns to the North Pole after delivering presents and the elves erupt in celebration. When Santa announces it’s time to start working on next year’s Christmas, the cheering gets even louder. When people genuinely enjoy what they do and feel connected to the mission, they don’t just celebrate wins, they’re energized by what comes next.
As leaders, we should regularly ask ourselves: where have we unintentionally drained the fun out of work in the name of efficiency or structure?
2. Right Role Fit
Buddy fits in culturally at the North Pole, but he struggles with toy-making. Where he really shines is decorating the department store and helping his dad write a children’s book. It’s a great reminder that working hard doesn’t always help you reach your potential.
When leaders align people’s strengths with the work they do, engagement increases and potential gets unlocked. Who on your team might be giving great effort but would thrive even more in a different role?
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
Clark Griswold and Cousin Eddy provide endless laughs, but beneath the chaos are lessons about perseverance, intention, and leadership.
1. Go Above and Beyond
Think about all the holiday parties you’ve attended that blur together over time. Clark refuses to be ordinary. Whether it’s the Christmas tree, the sledding adventure, or the house covered in lights, he commits fully to creating a memorable experience.
Great leaders aren’t afraid to stand out. Taking thoughtful risks to create meaningful moments doesn’t always work, but playing it safe rarely creates anything special.
2. Show Some Love
Clark’s boss, Mr. Shirley, is a masterclass in how not to lead. He gets Clark’s name wrong on multiple occasions and replaces bonuses with a “Jelly of the Month Club.” Appreciation doesn’t have to be expensive, but it does need to be sincere and personal.
Recognition builds morale, loyalty, and trust. As we head into the holidays, how are you showing your team that their work matters?
Check back next week for part two of this MIBE Message.
Keep MIBE-ing!
Anthony Lambatos
Founder, MIBE Hospitality Leadership Development
Owner, Footers Catering
P.S. Show your leadership growth some love! Join us at our MIBE Summit January 25th - 27th.
