Do you remember what you were doing 12 years ago?

We do.

I (Victor) was organizing my first-ever Leap Day Gathering. Sam Rosen offered his co-working space as the venue, a group of friends helped to produce the event, we got the food donated, and we invited “Leapers” from around Chicago to tell their stories. That event set the stage for everything that would follow.

In 2016…

We did it again, this time in partnership with an amazing organization called Chicago Ideas Week and a globally renowned innovation studio called gravitytank (now part of Salesforce). That year, we also funded the Leap Kit a physical product that encapsulated our learning process and a tool that anyone could use to design their Leaps. This was the first night that product took flight:

Then, in 2020…

We decided to expand these gatherings to 10 cities. And with the help of talented, caring friends, we pulled it off. Those dinners changed people’s lives. Since then, attendees have shared stories of shifting careers, launching businesses, sparking new projects and making lifelong friends — all from that night.

Unfortunately, 2 weeks later, COVID became a reality and the rest of our plans for 2020 were shelved.

Now it’s 2024.

We've chosen to do something different. A few months ago we invited anyone, anywhere to host an event on Leap Day. As of today there are ~50 gatherings planned for February 29th, 2024. And of course, I’m even planning one of the events in Chicago again — thinking through a schedule, space, food, and the overarching experience.

Most importantly, all of the hosts are thinking through the people. Their hopes and ideas. Their creative edges or unspoken ambitions. The changes they want to see in their workplaces, careers, and communities.

Because that’s what all of this is about.

Growth doesn’t just happen in a classroom, or a workshop, or a presentation. Experiences aren’t just “big” occurrences that require tons of time and resources. You don’t need someone else’s permission to Leap. It starts today.

And Leap year is just as fascinating today as it was back in 2012 — the extra day in the calendar year, the simple naming that’s built-in, the cadence of it all. Why not try to use it for good? To spark learning, change, community, and growth?

All you need next is a group of people, a starting point, a plan, and some nudges along the way.

How about you?

Where were you 12 years ago? Where are you today? And what’s your next Leap in your life or work?

All signs point towards starting soon. We'll all be in your corner.

PS: If you’re available on the 29th and want to join our virtual Leap session from 1:00 to 2:30pm CT, register here. We’d love to have you.