How a Tiny Duck Brightened My Day: The Power of Small Gestures in Building Positive Corporate Culture

Sometimes the largest impacts come from the smallest things.

Yesterday was my birthday and after some morning festivities I was a bit scrambly getting to my office. I was thinking about all the work I had to catch up on after being on a conference circuit for a few weeks and how to get it done in time to leave early in the afternoon. I was rushing, stressed, and caught up in my own head.

When I got to my office door I realized someone had left a tiny duck on my door handle.

It made me pause, smile with delight, and appreciate that someone had taken the time to “hide” it there for me.

I don’t know who did it, if it was for my birthday, or a random gesture in the quiet hall housing my office door.

It doesn’t really matter. The duck served the purpose intended, it made me stop and smile.

We talk a lot in my work about organizational culture, and about multiple strategies to create a positive space for all.

While I’m not suggesting everyone run out to purchase tiny ducks for their staff, I do think it’s worthwhile to reflect on how you can provide space for your staff to pause, and smile at something unexpectedly thoughtful.

And tiny duck person, if you are out there, thank you for the reminder to pause and smile on my birthday.