Welcome back to ‘Ben Thinking’, the ongoing share space for all things communications-related in today’s dynamic business world. I know you’re busy. So the least I can do is take one thing off your plate and serve up all the news that I think you’ll find interesting or will need to know.
I am not a Buddhist.
But during a recent meditation, I was introduced to a Buddhist saying that I loved:
“It changes.”
(Forgive me for not knowing of this sooner, but just like grunge is to my kids, it’s not old if it’s new to you. “Dad, have you listened to this Nirvana song?”)
While I love that saying, one thing I’d like to ask…can ‘it’ change a little slower? Why is ‘it’ moving so fast!! We are down to only a handful of working weeks this year. So I better make the most of the time I have with you before we’re talking 2025.
Onto what I’ve Ben thinking about….
(Side note: if you don't want any 'business' you can skip to the end for a little holiday 'Ben Thinking')
This is from Manufacturing Dive and is a simple, well-done piece on the four big trends we keep hearing about post-election. I’m guessing most of us reading know a decent amount about what’s here, but it’s worth the quick levelset.
Oh wow. Did I just mention politics and religion in this newsletter for the first time ever? And so close to Thanksgiving dinner?
(Answer: No, because the article isn’t political at all.)
Now what. Seriously, now. What. Oh, mobile phishing attacks? Great. Well, at least it’s not some new word from Gen Z to describe some act of desperation (you know, it’s worse than wishing…you’re missing).
This is worth your time to read because according to the article, manufacturing organizations are especially at risk:
According to this Business Insider article, more professionals than ever are turning down promotions. 42% to be exact.
Your thoughts on this? Have you turned a promotion down? Been turned down?
The Mayo Clinic may disagree with you. So much so that they partnered with Chief Executive on this piece to spotlight that executives’ health is an issue. They share these 8 essential tips for fighting stress. (Maybe this is why people don’t want promoted?)
Ohio’s manufacturing leaders are tackling workforce challenges head-on with bold strategies to attract and retain talent. From leveraging AI to upskilling workers and implementing earn-and-learn programs, the OMA Workforce Summit 2024 showcased innovative solutions for the future. And April was there to track it all for you. Curious about what she learned? It’s all right here.
No seriously. Thank you. Turns out friends are key to better health (number 6 in the Mayo Clinic tips, above).
A little holiday cheer to share. I’d love your take on ANY of these (or maybe a category you’d like to add). Enjoy the break with kith and kin.
“Driving Home for Christmas by Chris Rea” Look it up. You won’t be disappointed.
Bubble lights. (Although I miss those blazing hot huge bulbs that my grandparents put on their tree. Sure, they’d scar your hand, Indiana Jones style, but they were so cool and pretty.)
Charlie Brown Christmas.
I hate sweet potatoes. They should be banned from the table. Come at me.
Uh, Die Hard.
The obvious answer here is buckeyes, mainly because if you’re going to make a quick swipe, it needs to be something you can stick in your mouth, fast.
My take on this? End the ugly holiday sweater trend. It had its moment. It’s now officially in ‘wave’ territory.
Watching Planes Trains and Automobiles with my family on Thanksgiving eve. That last scene, where John Candy grips his hat in his hands while being introduced to Mrs. Page…winner.
Thanks for reading and Happy Thanksgiving!
-Ben