I came across a book I read years ago and was surprised when I refreshed my memory by flicking through the pages what a strong Buddhist (i.e. common sense) approach it has.
The book is called ‘FISH! – A Remerkable Way To Boost Morale and Improve Results’ by Stephen C. Lundin, Harry Paul and John Chrisensen and is the story of Seattle-based Mary Jane who hates her workplace, describing it as a ‘toxic energy dump’.
Inspired by the nearby Pike Place Fish Market (it really exists – google it!) where everyone there has fun (and consequently takes lots of money) and loves being at work, she set about transforming her workplace by first of all acknowledging that there is always a choice about the way you do your work, even if there is not a choice about the work itself.
Learning from the Pike Place Fish Market, she develops a simple set of self-generated actions based on four key concepts:
1. Choose Your Attitude (Don’t blame others - start with your own attitude!)
2. Be There (Be attentive and compassionate when talking with others)
3. Make Their Day (Take action based on the needs of others)
4. Play (Have fun!)
By Mary-Jane changing her own attitude, those around her began to change and gradually the ‘toxic energy dump’ transformed into a great place to work.
A recommended read.
