Click on this three minute guided meditation with Mary Jorgensen to slow-down and feel marveous right now on Akimboo.com
by Mary Jorgensen
Can I share a ‘fishy’ story about 4 ways to enjoy being at work?
The Seattle Pike Place Fish Market is the coldest, smelliest, slimiest place ever!
Yet researchers discovered a surprise there.
The fish market employees truly love coming to work! But why?
First, the workers said they choose to have a good attitude. They decided it’s your choice. You can choose to feel positive, look on the bright side, and share your encouraging attitude with others.
Mary’s tip: Before you even enter the door, take a deep breath and count to 4; then slowly exhale for 5 seconds. Oxygen in your brain opens up possibilities of having a good day.
Second, Fish Market workers commit to make someone else’s day. Whether it’s a customer, client, co-worker or supervisor, they find a way to pitch in and help someone else.
Mary’s tip: Find a way to “go the extra mile” for a customer; smile at someone; compliment a co-worker or supervisor on a job well done; offer to assist without being asked.
Third, the fish market workers show up at their work planning to be truly present when they’re on the job; paying attention to the slippery work of moving fish.
Mary’s tip: Bring your whole self to the game just as star athletes do. Turn off your phone, or ignore it except for emergencies.
Fourth, the Fish Market workers have fun, look for ways to do their jobs creatively, and think of ways to bring a laugh or a smile to others. They actually throw fish for fun!
Fish tossing has become a signature of their market, and customers go there just to enjoy catching the wrapped fish they ordered. You want some cod? Here!!! Everyone laughs.
Mary’s tip: Bring a joke to share, challenge others to bring jokes. Have a “silly hat day” competition. Practice doing silly walks for a good laugh.
Cultivate your own fish market attitude and change your work life. You can do it by yourself, or even better, lead your team to ramp up the good times at work. Which of these can you try today?
For a fun time with personal or group coaching, schedule Mary Jorgensen for a wellness break.
Author of Way of the SAGE: 4 Paths to Manage Stress and Build Resilience, Mary Jorgensen provides practical tools to harness inner wisdom. Mary is an educator, life coach, and workshop designer specializing in personal growth and workplace satisfaction.
Photos of fun at work by Parker Deen