Why Modern Family Matters

I promise; I will not spoil the fun that is Modern Family by analyzing it to death. There is, however, much to be learned from this most excellent sitcom.  Now that the USA Network is airing repeats, it has given me a chance to sit back and not only laugh again, but observe the true brilliance of the writers, directors, cast and crew.

Look for the contribution of the "less-showy" roles.  Sofia Vergara has been richly awarded, and justly so, for bringing Gloria to life. . .and let's face it, it's a, shall we say, showy role.  But, focus on Julie Bowen (Claire Dunphy) for just one episode.    Look at the nuances, the quick glances, the little things  she does that set-up big laughs.    Too often in life we focus just on those with the "showy" roles;   let's also pay attention to those that do great work every single day.

Listen for the little things.    One of the beautiful things about the writing, and the direction, is that it packs in a lot of little things. . .if you aren't listening or watching closely, you'll miss them.  If you are paying attention, you will be richly rewarded.     This is true in life as well.  . .whether in the workplace or at home.

It is an ensemble.  Can be we talk about near perfect team work?   The ability of players to complement one another?   There is so much to be learned about playing well together from watching this cast do their thing.

Yes, there is that much humor in life.    Whether in the office, in the gym or at church. . .there is always something that is funny. . .and that makes the world go around.   You just have to be aware of it and open to it.

It is about moving forward.   As much as Modern Family is about everything, ultimately it is about growing and moving onward. . .as difficult, as klutzy and as messy as that can be.   The sheer joy at the end of each thirty minutes is that the characters have moved forward from where they started thirty minutes prior.

Just in that, there is so much to be gained.

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And if you like it - check out my book, "Courageous Questions, Confident Leaders" available for e-readers, PCs and tablets on Amazon Kindle.