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 egg nog gets me right into the holiday spirit. Last year I wrote a message inspired by the Grinch, so I figured I’d continue the tradition and write about some of my other favorite holiday movies this year. I couldn’t decide on just one, so I’m turning this into a two part Leadership Message. Today, I bring you two leadership lessons from Elf and two from National Lampoons’ Christmas Vacation. Check back next week to hear my thoughts from two more holiday classics!

Will Ferrell’s performance as Buddy The Elf in the movie, Elf, is stellar and it’s hard to believe that the movie came out ten years ago! After a decade, it has stood the test of time and cemented its place among the favorite holiday movies.

1) Make Work Fun!

In the scene when Santa returns to the North Pole from delivering presents on Christmas Eve, the elves celebrate and cheer their accomplishment. Santa then says; “It’s time to start working on next year’s Christmas.” and all of the elves cheer even louder. When people enjoy what they do and work is fun, they are even more committed to the cause and excited about what’s next even after major accomplishments.

2) Right Job Fit

Buddy is a great “cultural fit” in working with the elves in the North Pole, however he struggles to perform at a high level when it comes to toy making. This is a classic example of someone in the wrong seat on the bus. Buddy thrives when it comes to decorating the department store or helping his dad write a children’s book. As leaders, when we put people in positions where they can utilize their strengths, we increase the likelihood of them enjoying what they do so they can reach their full potential.

Chevy Chase provides a number of laughs as Clark Griswold in Christmas Vacation, and along with the help of Cousin Eddy, they teach us lessons in perseverance. This holiday comedy also provides us with additional lessons that can help us be better leaders.

1) Go Above and Beyond

Think of all of the basic holiday parties you have either attended or worked. They are very nice, but nothing stands out and they all blend together over time. Clark Griswold is not afraid to stand out. In fact he relishes in taking things over the top. The Griswold Family Christmas Tree, sledding on the saucer, and of course decorating the house with an insane amount of lights. Great leaders aren’t afraid to risk taking things too far in order to create a memorable experience for others. It may not always work out, but I think it’s better to fail trying in lieu of playing it safe.

2) Show Some Love!

Clark’s boss Mr. Shirley is a shining example of a terrible boss. He butchers Clark’s name on multiple occasions and famously does away with Christmas bonuses in favor of giving his employees a subscription to the “Jelly of the Month Club.” Showing appreciation for the work of your team doesn’t have to be expensive, it just has to be thoughtful and sincere. When we take time to recognize the work of others, it improves morale, loyalty and productivity.

Hopefully I’ve inspired you to watch a few holiday classics, and don’t forget to come back next week for Part 2!