Work Hard, Play Hard: Team Lessons from Abeokuta

Dear readers,

#Because it’s been a month since our office retreat.

#Work #Retreat #August

In the spirit of 'Fiction Meets Function', I wanted to share a few reflections from our unforgettable experience at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL), Abeokuta.

#OOPL is more than a serene and relaxing destination; it’s a vault of knowledge, history, and inspiration. The perfect backdrop to unwind, reconnect, and reflect as a team.

When you work with a dedicated, hardworking, and genuinely friendly team, extraordinary things happen. The retreat proved this and more. Nearly everyone was present, and to those who stayed back to keep the engine running, know that you’re seen, appreciated, and your moment will surely come.

The children who joined us, including my son, had such an amazing time that they didn’t want to leave. That speaks volumes about the kind of culture we’re building: one that values not just employees, but the families that support them too.

They say “work is work and not family”, but when you’re surrounded by a boss who leads with head, heart, and humour, and colleagues who are as fun as they are focused, the line truly begins to blur. For many of us, this workplace feels like home.

At our first Town Hall of the year, I had the privilege of leading the HR & You session on workplace culture and policies. The biggest takeaway? Work hard, play hard — because that’s how we sustain balance.

As part of that session, we also inaugurated our Play Committee: a group dedicated to planning fun and engaging activities. They absolutely delivered! Special shoutout to our HR & Admin intern, who continues to go above and beyond to get things done.

And yes — my son, a few brave colleagues, and I made it all the way to the top of Olumo Rock 😎. What better way to crown such a memorable retreat?

Lessons & HR Insights:

-Work-life balance is culture in action, not theory. When people see both hard work and play encouraged, they thrive.

-Shared experiences outside the office fuel stronger collaboration inside it. Retreats are investments, not extras.

-Inclusivity strengthens belonging. When families feel welcome, employees feel more connected.

-Empower interns and young talent. Give them ownership, and they’ll surprise you with leadership.

-Leadership by example matters. A boss who leads with humour and heart sets the tone for the entire team.

Looking ahead, I’m excited for what’s to come!

#BurgerKing #Kinglace #Allied #WowCreamery #TeamSpirit #WorkLifeBalance #OOPL #RetreatReflections

#KeepSafe #PleaseShare #ThankYou

#Writing #Writer #Author #Reader #Bookworm #Storyteller #Daydreamer #TimeTraveller #WritingMachine #Process #Skill #Goals #AuthorCMO #CMO

Literarily Yours,
CMO.