5 Powerful Reasons to Embrace the Thai New Year!

^{Songkran is the best time of the year!}

With the thermometer pushing high and the air humid and warm, Songkran, the Thai New Year, marks the cool-down of Thailand's bustling hot season. And let's face it: celebrating the new year for the second time after December 31 is fantastic. Plus, everyone gets a free pass to unleash the playful kid inside and partake in the biggest water battle in the world. 

Yet, Songkran is more than just water fights.

Regardless of where you are or whether you traditionally celebrate the Thai New Year, Songkran offers a powerful reminder to practice graciousness. Here are 5 powerful reasons and Must-Do's to embrace Thai New Year and fully capture the festival's spirit: 

Reason 1 - Recognize Experience

During Songkran's "Rod Nam Dum Hua", or water-pouring ceremony, the young pour scented water into the elders' open palms. It's a way to show respect to older people and a tender request for blessings as the new year unfolds.

In today's fast-paced work environment, the importance of experience can go unnoticed. Songkran's beautiful tradition, where the younger generation shows respect to their elders, reminds us to appreciate and acknowledge the priceless wisdom and contributions of the more experienced team members.

Must-Do: Show respect to the more seasoned team members. Prioritize actively listening when those members share their experiences, proactively seek their insights, and encourage them to mentor newcomers. 

Now, onto the next reason. 

Reason 2 - Embrace Renewal

During Songkran's water-pouring ceremony, water is poured into the palms of elders, symbolizing a river that washes away the past year's errors, misfortunes, and regrets. This ritual embodies purification and Renewal, encouraging elders to enter the New Year refreshed and with renewed spirits, ready to embrace what lies ahead.

Must-Do: Foster an environment where past setbacks are let go, making room for new beginnings and revitalization. Letting go of past mistakes frees up emotional and mental space for growth and new opportunities.

Try it.

Reason 3 - Respect Traditions

During Songkran, Thais express their deep reverence for Buddha by journeying to temples and shrines and gently pouring scented water over Buddha statues. This cherished ritual symbolizes purification and is believed to attract good fortune, usher prosperity, and usher in a new beginning for the New Year.

Must-Do: Show genuine interest and appreciation for your colleague's cultural backgrounds and traditions. Be interested, ask questions, and make an effort to understand. 

Reason 4 - Invite Everyone 

Songkran is a festival that transcends background, religion, age, gender, or social status. It welcomes everyone everywhere to partake in its rituals and traditions and join in the spirited water battles that symbolize purification and Renewal.

Must-Do: Invite everyone the next time you head out for lunch or coffee with colleagues.

Let's dive into the "fun" part.

Reason 5 - Have Fun

Last but not least, Let's have fun! Songkran is renowned for being immensely fun and joyous! It's celebrated with vibrant water battles, traditional rituals, and community gatherings that fill the streets with laughter and happiness. It's a reminder that engaging in joyous and fun activities with others is vital for our well-being amidst life's responsibilities and challenges. 

Must-Do: Have fun at work! 

Stay tuned for an upcoming post about the importance of having fun at work. Follow me on LinkedIn and subscribe for "Gracious Note," the only newsletter you need to master gracious hospitality and become a gracious leader. 

In the meantime, immerse yourself in the spirit of Songkran and embrace the joy and Renewal it brings. 

Happy Songkran to you!