At WD-40 Company, when we had the chance to celebrate our 50th anniversary, the goal wasn’t to just come up with another crazy idea from the CEO’s office.

It was about something much bigger—honoring the company’s legacy and the people who made it possible. From day one, our focus was to celebrate this milestone in a way that reflected who we are, and that meant involving everyone, not just those at the top.

I’ll never forget riding through Times Square, dressed in 45 pounds of chain mail on horseback. Yes, it was wild. But it wasn’t about making headlines or poking fun at a competitor like some other stunts.

It was about creating joy. It was a moment to reflect on the people who built this company and the lasting impact we wanted to leave.

Everyone from the planners to the bystanders on the street who stopped to watch were part of this shared experience. And that’s the magic—everyone was in on the joke. It wasn’t just my moment. It belonged to the entire WD-40 tribe.

Looking back, there’s one thing that stands out to me: It wasn’t about winning or competing. It was about creating a positive, lasting memory, something that still lives on in the halls of WD-40’s headquarters. It’s a story people will tell long after I’m gone, perhaps even at the 100th anniversary.

Here’s what I took away from the experience:

Best: Use your imagination and tie the spectacle to the company’s purpose. Celebrate who you are as a team.
Worst: Don’t make it a competition. This isn’t about beating someone else—it’s about sharing joy with your people.
First: Involve everyone in the planning process, from leadership to the front lines. It’s a moment for the entire tribe, not just one person.

Learning Moment: The best celebrations come when they’re meaningful and involve everyone. Make it about your people, your purpose, and the joy of the moment. That’s where lasting memories are made.

Company Culture Tip: Embrace Everyday Interactions as Learning Opportunities

It’s easy to overlook the value of everyday interactions, but doing so means missing out on incredible growth opportunities. Reframe every conversation and meeting as a chance to learn something new.

Whether it’s a feedback session, a brainstorming meeting, or a casual chat by the coffee machine, each interaction is filled with insights and perspectives that can expand your understanding and enhance your skills.

By transforming these daily exchanges into learning moments, you enrich not just your professional journey but your personal growth as well. Make a habit of seeking out and embracing these opportunities—they are the building blocks of a vibrant, learning-focused company culture.