The Business Lessons From Panto

'Growth rarely happens in the places we feel most comfortable.' Well… yesterday certainly proved that!

I popped over to my mum’s care home for what I thought would be a gentle, festive afternoon - sitting with mum, catching up with my brother and enjoying the Christmas panto the staff team put on to entertain the residents.

It’s one of the many brilliant festive activities the staff organise to keep residents active, smiling and feeling connected.

But the universe had other plans yesterday.

Two staff members were off sick and before I knew it (and with plenty of arm-twisting (oh yes there was!), I was handed a script… a cape… and a crown.

Prince Charming had arrived - well… a very questionable version of him anyway!

I really, really didn’t want to do it.
I felt daft.
I was out of my comfort zone.

But here's the thing...

As business owners, we face these moments all the time: those unexpected situations that ask us to step up, lean in and lead - even when we don’t feel ready.

How often do we as business owners have to step outside our comfort zones to embrace those awkward moments?

Sometimes leadership isn’t about being polished or prepared - it’s about being present and stepping in when it matters. It’s about showing up for others, even when it feels awkward, messy or wildly off-script.

And honestly?
It wasn't that bad after all.

I don't think I'm cut out for panto but the show went on.
The residents laughed.
My mum beamed.

The day was hopefully better because I said 'yes' when it would’ve been easier to say 'no'.

And isn’t that the heart of business growth too?

The moments where we stretch…
where we risk looking a bit daft or failing…
where we choose progress over comfort.

Those are the moments that move us - and everyone around us - forward.

Sometimes the most meaningful things happens in the least glamorous roles - cape, wig and all.

And remember...

If a wildly underprepared, painfully unconvincing Prince Charming like me can step up when needed… just imagine what you could achieve by stretching one inch beyond your own comfort zone this week.

Have a great week! :-)