Hi Folks,
Sometimes the smallest
books can have the greatest impact, maybe because we can actually get through
the whole book in a few settings. Or maybe because the simplest messages have
so much truth in them. Based on the recommendation of a good friend of mine I picked up
Fish! A Remarkable Way to Boost Morale
and Improve Results by Stephen C. Lundin, Harry Paul, and John Christensen.
My friend mentioned to me that this book was describing the effort of improving
morale and the work environment in a company. I found, however, that it is just as applicable to our personal lives.
Here is one quote from the
authors: “There is always a choice about the way you do your work, even if
there is not a choice about the work itself.” Isn’t the same thing true for our
life in general? Whatever situation we are in, we always have the choice how we
deal with it and what we make of it. Do we take it as a stepping stone or a
stumbling block? Do we see the blessing in any situation or only the curse? This
is the first of the four truths, and let me share with you all four:
- Choose your attitude
- Play
- Engage & make other’s day
- Be present
Often times, we don’t feel
that we have a choice how to face a situation or experience. Similarly, we can
get so serious about life because yes, it is a serious matter but then there is
also the part in us that wants to take it lightly, laugh about it and be
creative and playful in finding solutions and insights. That’s where the second
truth of play comes in which allows us to have a lighter and more creative outlook.
When life gets too serious
and we get too serious about ourselves, we might forget to be there for others
because we are focused so much on fixing what’s not going right. I can
personally attest to it, and I am also witness of how good it feels to engage
others and attempt to make their day better whenever possible. It creates connection,
a sense of purpose, and a feeling of moving forward – "even if" it starts with
moving another person’s life forward. And many times, it’s the small steps of
smiling at a person or holding the door that engage us with each other and
lightens up our days – so much for the third truth.
Last but not least, being
present as the four truth enables us to commit to the other truths. Because as
long as we are focused on the past or present, we give away the chance to
choose our attitude in the moment, play with what occurs in the present, and
engage with the people that are around us. Every moment is an opportunity, and
if we turn it into something empowering or disempowering is our own choice!
Ask yourself the following
questions which have been inspired by the authors, and I hope they will boost
your morale and improve your life results :-):
- Who do you want to be while you live your
life?
- How could you have more fun and create more
energy?
- Who are the people around you and how can you
engage them in a way that will make their day? And how can you make your
own day?
- How can you be more present with yourself and
others?
Imagine what it would be
like to bring your whole being to every moment in your life. That’s when we
flourish and thrive.
Much love,
Anja
PS: To find out more about the book and the philosophy behind it, check out the website: www.fishphilosophy.com
