I was recently part of a discussion where everyone was asked what they were most proud of accomplishing personally and professionally. We all have things in our life that we can look back on and genuinely feel awesome about! Sometimes these things are major life events that happen at a single point in time; like climbing a mountain or the birth of a child. Sometimes, it’s the culmination of years of hard work like building a business or developing a fruitful marriage. Sometimes, it’s the progress that has been made, and sometimes, it’s the courage to start over. Sometimes, we get recognition from someone else, and sometimes the self-satisfaction of knowing you did your best is enough.

Most Heart Leaders don’t go around touting their best accomplishments or take on a challenge in business with the intent to win an award, yet I think it’s important to find ways to celebrate those things in our lives. Especially when those things are related to a team. There are many people that are part of our journey, cheering us on and want a way to share in the joy of those accomplishments. While an award might not be the reason we start, it sure feels great when we do get recognition from others. It emphasizes what has been accomplished, inspires a heightened sense of pride for being part of a team and shows that others admire the work we have done.

At mibe, we are inspired by the people who are bringing Heart Leadership to their organizations and passionate about helping companies create better places to work in the hospitality industry. Places where their team members can come to work, enjoy who they work with, find fulfillment in that work and have fun while they’re doing it. Our industry has not historically been known as one that focuses on these things and we are out to change that.

At our inaugural mibe Summit on January 22nd-24th, we are excited to announce that we will be recognizing some outstanding leaders and companies through our first annual mibe Awards! There are five categories that we’ll be celebrating. Heart Leaders of the Year, and recognizing companies through four culture related initiatives; Employee Recognition Programs, Company Events, Activation of Core Values or Mission, and Overall Improvement, or “Best mibe”. We encourage you to nominate your company, or a leader that has made a significant impact on you and your development. We would also be honored if you helped spread the word and encouraged other companies in the hospitality industry to apply. Feel like you still have a long way to go? No one is perfect, so put your doubts aside. The spirit of mibe is all about continuous improvement and if you’ve seen things get better at your company, then apply! We want to celebrate YOU and your teams!