In Western Europe , once a year there comes a time when the ECo-C becomes… completely unnecessary. That time is, of course, Christmas (or the “festive season” as political correctness sometimes demands it be called). During Christmastime, people seem to operate as though with a single will: there is hence no need to teach them teamwork, since they all agree on their shared desire to have a good time, move on from the past, forgive wrongs, and exchange presents. Preferably nice presents, that is.

Pre-existing conflicts are put often put on a hold, if not outright resolved in the sheer festive atmosphere and good cheer. Communications are intensified, if only because people have a valid reason to spontaneously engage others, wishing them the best in their celebrations, for the upcoming year, for the future. And of course, a smiling, honest face, mirroring clearly honest wishes is the best type of message one could send about one’s self: self-marketing, albeit with no such intention. If it were Christmas every day, the ECo-C would have no purpose and would be completely unnecessary.

Sadly, that is not so. Christmas is a moment in time, special, and a herald of changes that will come about once we essentially snap out of it. This was mentioned in our previous article concerning the strategy meeting that was to (and did) take place on December 10^th, at the same time as the ECo-C social event. And as to how it went? Well, of course, people who participated in the meeting came away speaking of a “fruitful” discussion, one that included “potential for future expansion”, “annual reviews” and “a brainstorming session on the ECo-C Advanced”. All of these signals are interesting, encouraging, and designed to make us wait with bated breath for further details… which are not likely to emerge before next year! Luckily that is not all that long anymore! While we await said details from that quarter, permit us to wish you, dear readers, a jolly festive season and an even better upcoming year.