Who said Christmas movies and professional development don’t go hand in hand? Take a seat on a comfy chair—preferably not on a throne of lies—and read how holiday cheer can help your career with these Elf movie quotes from Buddy and his friends.
 

"The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear."

It only takes one person to role model behavior to create a chain reaction resulting in a work environment everyone is proud to be a part of. Do your best and always bring your A-game and you’ll breed a positive atmosphere in the workplace.
 

"Buddy, I’ve been around the world many times when I was a young cumulus nimbus cloud. It’s a wonderful place, filled with wondrous creatures—except dogs. Oh, by the way, don’t eat the yellow snow."

Find a mentor in your field to cultivate a professional relationship, inviting them to pass on the insight they’ve gained through their experience to lend to your professional journey.
 

"I'm a cotton-headed ninny muggins."

Unlike Buddy here, you have to believe in yourself as you go on your professional journey! You are your biggest cheerleader, and positive self-talk will manifest into personal success in big and small victories.
 

"We elves try to stick to the four main food groups: candy, candy canes, candy corn and syrup."

Be ethical in your work, and make sure all decisions are on the foundation of ethics. Unethical practices from one person have the potential to taint an industry. 
 

"Buddy, you're more of an elf than anyone I ever met. And the only one I would want working on my sleigh tonight."

Leave imposter syndrome at the door. You are often your own harshest critic and sometimes you may feel unworthy or incapable of tackling a task. But colleagues and teammates see the value that you bring to the table and are grateful to have you as part of the team!
 

"Santa, here? I know him! I know him!"

Networking is so important because you can show up to an event and have a familiarity with someone else in attendance. It can help you continue to build your professional network and even allow you to introduce others to those in your network to create a dream team.
 

"So Dad, I planned our whole day. First, we'll make snow angels for two hours. And then we'll go ice skating. And then we'll eat a whole roll of Tollhouse Cookie Dough as fast as we can. And then, to finish, we'll snuggle."

Ever feel overwhelmed by all you have to do in a day? Make a to-do list of all your tasks for the day and check them off as you go. Feel free to share it with your teammates so you can inspire them to do the same and also keep yourself accountable.

"You did it! Congratulations! World's best cup of coffee! Great job, everybody!"

Celebrate the achievements of those in your network! Reach out when you see someone accomplish a milestone or receive a promotion to say congratulations. Sending a quick message of kind recognition demonstrates that you’re paying attention to and encouraging them on their professional journey. They’ll appreciate it and will pay it forward!
 

"A song? Uh, yeah! Anything for you, Dad. [singing] I... I... I'm here with my dad, and we never met, and he wants me to sing him a song. And um… I was adopted, but you didn't know I was born. So, I'm here now! I found you, Daddy! And guess what? I love you, I love you, I LOVE YOU!”

Sometimes, you will be asked to do things outside of your comfort zone and require you to act on the spot. Don’t panic! Embrace the spontaneity of the moment by completing the task to your best ability. Your best effort is your tool in moments that require improvisation.
 

“Hey, Buddy! Want to pick some snowberries?" 

"Not now, arctic puffin!"

Distractions from co-workers can be kryptonite when you’re in the zone. If you have work to do and someone is asking for your attention, don’t be afraid to politely decline, and let them know that you have to focus on your task at hand right now. They’ll respect your honesty and give you the space to complete your work.

So, there you have it! Take Buddy’s advice and invest in your professional development today. You never know— you could end up traveling on an unexpected path just like him!

This blog post is written by our Division of Student Life student intern Rachel Ornstein.