A few weeks ago, it seemed as if every day I was bombarded with a “National Day” holiday. National Cheesecake Day, National Avocado Day, National Ice Cream Sandwich Day, and National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day were highlighted all over my social media feed with lots of mouth-watering photos.When I dug a little deeper, I realized there were even MORE National Days that failed to appear on my radar that same week. I was devastated to learn I had missed National Grab Some Nuts Day, National Work Like a Dog Day, and, most importantly, National Underwear Day. Tragic!

All these National Days had my waistline and brain activity increasing. How did we get to this point? I ask myself this question frequently on many different subjects. Are these the new-age Hallmark holidays? Yes, why, yes, I believe they are!  What can we learn by this shift in society? A lot.

In answering those questions, I realized these National Days may hold more clout than you or I think.

What you can learn professionally and personally through the new-age National Days:

1. Professionally: Be Prepared. If you’re in the business of selling any of the items that are deemed worthy of a National Day, you have the direct opportunity to capitalize and boost sales that one day. The flurry of ice cream sandwich posts I saw were enough evidence of people waiting an obscene amount of time to get a precious treat and, of course, snap the perfect picture to post for all their friends to see. Treat it with care, and you’ll reap the benefits. Ignore it, and you’ll miss out on a mass-marketed, media-frenzied opportunity. Be prepared, market smartly, and execute effectively, and your National Day will be a nice bump in profit margins. Cha-Chocolate-Chip-Cookie-Ching!

2. Personally: Be a Leader. If you’re in the business of being an individual, you have the opportunity on these somewhat ridiculous days to be a leader and protest by not taking part in something just because society is shoving it in your face. I remember growing up and hearing heated debates over the validity of Sweetest Day. Just another day for potential disappointment whether you’re single or in a relationship. I remember at a young age falling on the side of thinking it was a ploy and second-rate attempt to be another Valentine’s Day. I’ve never in my life celebrated Sweetest Day, and I have a feeling when National Grab Some Nuts Day rolls around next year, I won’t be sucked into that trap either. Every day, society will pressure you to believe, follow, or act on what is “normal” or “acceptable.” I hope you will take a moment to pause and think for yourself and ask, “Shall I follow, or shall I dare to break free and lead?”

I realize my thoughts and teachings on the National Days conflict, but sometimes that’s life. In general, I’m conflicted on them. Professionally, they are a great tool and should be used. Personally, I hate the idea of blindly following societal masses and feel you should stand proud as a leader against silliness. The happy medium? Support the National Days that get you excited to your core and genuinely appeal to your likes and way of life. I know I’ll be behind two upcoming National Days:

August 17^th is National Non-Profit Day. I serve on the board of two non-profits, one of which has its annual fundraising event on August 26^th. Looks like I have a great opportunity to take advantage of this National Day! www.autismstrong.org

August 24^th is National Waffle Day. For my IG followers, you’ve seen me frequent Cast Iron Waffles in Charlotte as one of my favorite writing and meeting places. What a great reason to go support two great local business owners and get a sweet treat while I’m at it. Their waffles are the BEST! P.S. Cast Iron Waffles ships across the country. You’re welcome! www.castironwaffles.com

There are National Days for days. Which will you support, and which will leave you shaking your head?

Think I’m kidding about the plethora of National Days? Want to see if you can capitalize in your own business? Click here to access a full calendar: https://nationaldaycalendar.com/calendar-at-a-glance/