The Journey of Christmas Across Cultures: Lessons for Leadership and Business

A Family Moment That Sparked Curiosity

This story will start a bit differently than my other writings. Hang in there, as it has some nice learnings and some informational parts as well. It all began with a cozy evening at home in the Netherlands. My family and I were watching a Finnish Christmas movie about the origins of Nicholas. It was a heartwarming story, but I couldn’t help but remember how it wasn’t accurate. I remembered learning some time ago from my wife that Nicholas's real story began not in Finland but in Turkey, with a monk known for his incredible acts of kindness. That curiosity stayed with me after the movie ended, prompting me to dive deeper into the real history behind the man who went from Turkey to the Netherlands, then to the US, and finally met me in Brazil. Nicholas would eventually become Papai Noel (Stant Claus wearing shorts).

The Real Nicholas: A Turkish Monk and His Legacy

Based on my research, Saint Nicholas, greek, was born around 280 AD in present-day Turkey. He was known for his piety, generosity, and unwavering commitment to helping others. The most famous story about him is how he secretly gave gold to a poor family to provide dowries for their daughters, saving them from being sold into slavery or forced into prostitution. The story says that as he threw a bag of gold into the house through the window, it landed in stockings (sounds familiar Americans?).

His care extended beyond individuals. Nicholas was also known for his compassion toward the hungry and destitute. During a severe famine, he used his influence and resources to secure food for his community, ensuring no one suffered. These selfless acts earned him the love and respect of his people, and stories of his kindness spread far and wide.

After his death on December 6th, 343AD, Nicholas became a venerated saint, and stories of his kindness evolved into traditions. His reputation as a protector of children and helper of the needy spread across Europe, influencing countless customs and celebrations. Placing gifts in shoes or stockings became a tradition in many cultures.

Sinterklaas: An Old Man Arriving from Spain

Over time, his story spread across many parts of Europe, where it began to take on new forms in the Netherlands. His acts of generosity inspired the tradition of Sinterklaas, a festive figure who traveled by boat from Spain to the Netherlands, leaving gifts for children. Sinterklaas is said to arrive by steamboat from Spain in mid-November, typically the first Saturday after November 11th. This event is celebrated with parades and is broadcast live on national television in the Netherlands.

Living in the Netherlands now, this was a new thing to me as I had never heard of this jolly old man coming by steamboat and riding on his white horse with hordes of helpers, the Petes. I can see how deeply this tradition is woven into the culture here, from children placing carrots in their shoes for Sinterklaas’s horse to the excitement of his annual arrival (which, by the way, he arrives at many towns from many boats all around the Netherlands). But Sint didn't stand still. He evolved as he moved to the United States.

From Leiden to the U.S.: A Tradition Transformed

The Dutch settlers who brought Sinterklaas to the United States were not directly tied to the Pilgrims who left Leiden, but the historical connections fascinate me. Leiden, very close to where I now live, was the Pilgrims’ home before they set sail on the Mayflower. Today, our family celebrates Thanksgiving in Leiden where they once were, honoring that connection between the Netherlands and the U.S.

Sinterklaas's journey to the U.S. resulted in an incredible transformation. The Dutch settlers’ stories of Sinterklaas merged with local traditions, giving birth to Santa Claus. This, as I understand it, was started in New Amsterdam, now known as New York. If that story is new to you, you should look it up!

Over time, his image evolved—shaped by literature, illustrations, and even advertising—into the jolly figure in a red suit we know today. Even the names of his reindeer, such as Donner and Blitzen, were adapted from their original Dutch forms, Dunder and Blixem, meaning thunder and lightning.

From the U.S. to Brazil: Full Circle

The story doesn’t end there. As Santa Claus became a global icon, he made his way to Brazil, my first home. Growing up in Brazil, I knew him as Papai Noel. His image and traditions arrived in Brazil during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, influenced by the Americanized Santa Claus. But in true Brazilian fashion, he adapted to the tropical climate, sometimes ditching the heavy suit for lighter attire while maintaining the joy and generosity that made him so special.

It’s incredible to think about how the story of Saint Nicholas came full circle for me, from Europe to America and then back to the country where I was born. Each place added its cultural touch, but the heart of the story—kindness, generosity, and community—remained the same.

Ok... This is not really what he looks like in Brazil. He looks like Santa but with lighter clothes, but I couldn't pass this up.

But now, onto business... because no story goes here without some learning :)

Lessons for Leadership and Business

Reflecting on this journey, I see so many parallels between leadership and business:

1. Adaptation and Evolution: Like Saint Nicholas’s story, which evolved across cultures, businesses must adapt to changing environments while staying true to their core values. Flexibility and resilience are essential when navigating changes.
2. Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding and respecting cultural nuances is key. Whether leading a global team or launching a product in a new region, tailoring your approach can make all the difference in building trust and connection.
3. The Power of Storytelling: Nicholas’s legacy endured because his story inspired people across generations. Leaders, too, can use storytelling to connect with their teams, communicate their vision, and create a sense of purpose.
4. Creating a Lasting Impact: Just as Saint Nicholas’s generosity left a legacy that spans centuries, leaders should focus on building cultures and systems that create positive ripple effects long after their time in the role.

Conclusion: A Journey Worth Celebrating

As I reflect on Nicholas's journey and its personal connection to my own life—from Turkey to the Netherlands, the U.S., and Brazil—I am reminded of the power of human stories. They connect us, teach us, and inspire us to do and be better. In leadership and business, we have the opportunity to create our own stories, ones that adapt, endure, and leave a positive impact on those around us. I aspire to do better as we work to conclude this year and look forward to 2025.

🎄Before you all go off to holiday land... I sincerely wish you and your loved ones a joyful holiday season and a successful, fulfilling 2025! ✨

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