Halloween has its roots in Celtic history reaching back hundreds of years, but is now widely celebrated as a children’s event or an opportunity to don ghoulish costumes for a neighbourhood party.
Like many of these ancient festivals, its origin is strongly linked to the agriculture calendar and the need to store up the fruits of the summer and prepare for the harsh winter ahead.
Although hidden heavily in commercialism and frivolity in modern times, Halloween is a timely reminder of key transition points that we can reach in our lives, both as individuals and as organisations. We are sometimes seduced into believing that changes in season or rites of passage have little to do with our modern, busy lives which can give the illusion of predictability.
Modern companies are so focused on the ebb and flow of the balance sheet, that they can fail to look up and notice the ebb and flow of their business environment – be that the state of employee satisfaction inside their company, or the level of change in tastes and expectations of the wider public.
These old festivals remind us that rites of passage and ceremonies are important to help us prepare for periods of transition. Slavishly holding on to out-dated or out-moded ways of working helps no-one. So as you enjoy the tricks and treats of the season, you have the opportunity to think about what other changes might also be ahead in your life and your work. What opportunities exist to honour the past and welcome the future? By entering into the spirit of celebration during key transitions, you can help everyone acknowledge and prepare for the change ahead.

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