We should all embrace Fika! According to visitsweden.com, “While fika may seem like just a coffee and cake break, it holds a much deeper cultural significance in Sweden. It’s a moment to pause, connect and recharge — often more about the company and conversation than the coffee itself.” “Fika can happen any time of day, and it usually involves freshly brewed coffee served with something sweet; cinnamon buns (‘kanelbullar’) are the most popular choice. It’s also a popular and more relaxed choice for a date than going out for dinner. While some might enjoy a quiet coffee break solo, fika is widely seen as a social ritual — best shared with others.” I will say that taking a true break during the day to disconnect from your tasks and reconnect with someone is necessary. I am still working to make this a daily routine: leaving the office, having a break and connecting. It is hard and will take time, but we are in a place and time in history where we need to work hard to go slow. We should bring a bit of gold gilding back — a bit of sparkle sparks joy! Finally, after visiting two palaces, a royal armory, a historic parliament building and Stockholm’s City Hall, not to mention some beautiful old hotels and department stores, I can confidently say that gold leaf makes me smile. Something about a thoughtful glimmer and strategically placed detail makes you pause and appreciate a place. We should all take a moment in our work to find opportunities that make us smile and know that we can also pass that joy along to others. So, go, take a vacation, take a moment and re-engage with the world. It’s necessary! 7
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