Taking the Leap:

As we kick off Leap Day, have you thought about what activities you’ll partake in? When you think about it, taking a leap can mean so many things – “taking a leap of faith” or “taking a flying leap” – the latter, not as positive. But as many of you know, 2016 is an official leap year. We all get a bonus day!

While January 1 is the official declaration of “How can I make myself better,” we could take advantage of Leap Day and channel our focus toward self-improvement.

#### As a company
Use this day to review your team and company goals. Perhaps even plan an extra outing or activity. Work on building your team and company culture stronger. Plan something out of the ordinary and out of your currently scheduled team building activities.

For example, breakout experiences are popping up across the midwest. What is the worst thing that could happen when you are locked in a room with six to eight of your colleagues? You will always learn more about your team when you’re together in one small room and have 60 minutes to escape. These experiences provide a fast-paced, problem-solving environment that puts everyone at the same level with no hierarchy. Check out [The Breakout Games](https://thebreakoutgames.com/) for city and availability.

#### As an individual – professionally
Do something out of your everyday norm. If you don’t like it, you didn’t technically waste a day. It could be tuning into a webinar, volunteering at a professional event or grabbing lunch with a new coworker. You’ll learn something about yourself, and better yet, about someone else!

Additionally, think about revitalizing your connection with past clients. We all have those clients who have wandered away or transferred to a new city/job where you are no longer on their speed dial. Reconnecting will give you the opportunity to find out what’s new with their company, the challenges they currently face and where they want to take their team. And in return, how can you get them there?

#### As an individual – personally
With the everyday hustle and bustle, sometimes we just want to binge watch Netflix. Not today. Let’s try something different. A good way to experience something new is exploring fun group events in your area through [Meetup](http://www.meetup.com). If you reside in the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky area, you can also learn about local happenings at [CincinnatiUSA.com](http://cincinnatiusa.com/events).

Trying a new restaurant, bar or brewery is also a good idea when it comes to getting friends and family together. You can utilize Leap Day and make it about the people most special in your life!

No matter what you decide to do with your Leap Day, be sure to make it count. How will you be spending the day?