The Disney “Hug Rule” #FeelingFriday

Source: Disney

Ever have one of those days where you just really need a good hug? A big hug. Un gran abrazo. Un gros câlin.

Lately, it’s pretty much every day.

So let me tell you about Disney's legendary "Hug Rule," apparently started by Walt Disney himself with his infamous quote:

"You never know how much that child may need that hug."

The rule is simple: characters are trained to let the child lead the embrace. The child holds the hug for as long as they need. When the child lets go, the character lets go. Not before.

The child is in control the entire time.

So pure. So innocent. So magical.

So Disney.

I want a little of that magic in my life too. This shouldn’t just be a theme park rule, it should be a theme for our daily lives . Let’s bring the Disney world into our world.

I love a big hug, not going to lie. I live for them at home and at work. A big hug carries me forward. So from now on, I'm adopting the Disney Hug Rule. I'm not letting go until the person I'm hugging lets go. Even if it means I'm late to my next appointment, meeting, or call. Ha, how rich is that?!?

I’m betting it’ll be contagious, in all the good ways.

What's your experience? Big hugs to you all. JIM

P.S. - For those who have read my book “Out and About Dad,” you know the Disney song “Part of Your World” plays a pivotal part in my personal journey. For lots of reasons, the Disney Hug Rule brought me back to that moment and to this song.