I’ve just come back from California with my family, and we did something every kid (and let’s be honest, every adult too) dreams of: Disneyland.
Now, I went there for the kids…Madison and Cooper had the time of their lives…but as a business owner, I couldn’t help but see things differently. Every ride, every show, every staff interaction had me thinking: This is world-class business in action.
And honestly? If Walt Disney could see the park today, 70 years on, he’d be proud. It runs like clockwork, and there are lessons every business owner can take from it.
Here’s what stood out the most:
1. Systems and Processes Are Everything
Disneyland is a well-oiled machine. From security checks to crowd control during parades to how staff handle thousands of guests daily, nothing is left to chance.
That only happens because their systems are thoroughly documented, refined, and integrated into the training of every employee.
In business, whether you’re solo or managing a team, your systems are what keep things running when you’re not there.
2. Culture Starts at the Top
Here’s the truth: you can feel the culture at Disney. Every staff member, from the ride operators to the people sweeping paths, was upbeat, friendly, and focused on creating magic.
That doesn’t happen by accident. Culture is built and led from the top. In your business, the way you show up as a leader sets the tone for your team.
3. Customer Experience is Non-Negotiable
At Disneyland, the customer experience is everything. From the spotless grounds (yes, I saw a staff member polishing a bin!) to the professional photographers who made capturing memories effortless, every detail was thought through.
Ask yourself: Are you making it easy for customers to love your business?
4. Attention to Detail = Trust
Weeds in the garden? Faded signage? Sloppy service? Not at Disney. Everything was top-notch.
And that level of detail builds trust. In your business, small touches, quick responses, clean invoices, and polished presentations add up to how clients feel about working with you.
The Big Takeaway
Disneyland isn’t just a theme park. It’s a masterclass in how to run a business that delivers consistently, builds loyalty, and creates magic for customers.
So here’s the challenge: what would Disneyland do in your business?
If you documented your systems, refined your culture, and obsessed over your customer experience, how much better would things run?
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Because when you’ve got the proper financial framework in place, your business stops being chaotic… and starts being magical.