Witnessing Groundhog Day
There are two definitions of Groundhog Day.
A tradition in the United States when a groundhog (think marmot—or ground squirrel) comes out of its hole after hibernation. If the little creature sees its shadow—i.e. the weather is sunny—then it climbs back into its hole, which signals a further six weeks of winter.
A situation in which a series of unwelcome or tedious events appear to be recurring in exactly the same way.
I’ve never witnessed the first meaning—yet. Although I’ve come across the second meaning many times—and in many different organisations. Every time it’s a result of fire-fighting and poor planning—in individuals, teams and organisations.
In nature, today is Groundhog Day (Friday, 02 February 2024). But in the workplace, it could take place on any given day.