On Friday, November 26, 2021 the band Noasis, a tribute band for the group Oasis, performed at the Tan Hill Inn in Richmond, England. While entertaining those in attendance, a snowstorm descended on this city located 200 miles northwest of London.
So much snow fell that approximately 60 patrons, employees, and band members were trapped in the Inn for three days! Some children and a man with a medical condition were evacuated but everyone else hunkered down for a memorable time together in something now known as Snoasis.
Those stranded kept themselves busy with karaoke, games, more music from the band, and a tremendous amount of food and adult beverages.
When the weather cleared and everyone was able to leave the following Monday, the Inn posted on its Facebook page, “We will ALWAYS remember this group of amazing people who came together, and hopefully, in challenging circumstances, enjoyed what we all think was a life – changing experience.” The posting is shown below:
The following are leadership lessons we can learn from Snoasis:
The Power of Perspective
Many people reading this post would think those stranded would develop “cabin fever” or go through other various forms of anger or anxiety. While that would certainly be understandable, those in attendance chose to enjoy what was right in front of them. Rather than looking at the negative, they chose to enjoy the extra time with friends and the band they love, warm housing, and plenty of good food and drink. For more on the power of perspective, read What Is A Leader’s Greatest Strength?.
The Importance Of A Positive Attitude
Is there anything leaders hate more than inconvenience and inefficiency? While I may not have experienced anxiousness, I certainly would have been annoyed. After all, I’ve got things planned for the weekend. I’ve got things to do. In fact, why did I ever come to this in the first place since it was snowing? And because I approach things this way, my negative attitude would have caused me to miss out on one of the most memorable events of my life.
My attitude would have disqualified me from having a wonderful memory.
A positive attitude opens up your heart and mind to possibilities. Positive people are simply more attractive and enjoyable to be around. A positive attitude makes you more “lucky”. Those in attendance had an incredible three days. I wonder if I would have.
Unlikely Disturbances Can Give Birth To Great Things
People need to do a better job embracing life’s inconveniences. After all, it is at the edge of uncomfortable where greatness resides. Who knew being trapped in a snowstorm would garner worldwide attention for those in attendance? Blessings often come disguised as unexpected detours and inconveniences. Embrace them.
The Importance Of Creating A Community Of Evangelists
I’m convinced one of the reasons people were so willing to shelter-in-place was their collective appreciation of the band Noasis. Think about it, they got the privilege of spending three extra days with the band they love and get to know them personally! The success of any band, artist, business, political candidate, or church is their ability to grow a passionate group of followers who become the organization’s evangelists. Noasis certainly has.
The Value Of Building An Adaptable Team
While not discussed, the ability of the Inn’s staff to adapt and pivot cannot be overstated. People are a picture of those in leadership. The staff clearly thought of various contingencies to handle the snow, power, food and beverages, housing, and all other needs to care for those who were stranded. This was an A+ effort by those employees.
If Handled Properly, A Bad Experience Can Become Something You Want To Relive Again And Again
There has been discussions about making Snoasis an annual event for those who were stranded. I know if I’m in Richmond, England, I’ll be there. … and ready to stay for several days.
I would like to thank Abigail Reighard for her contributions to this article.
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