FISH! Philosophy

* Be There
* Play
* Make Their Day
* Choose Your Attitude  

The idea of FISH! is pretty basic.  It's based upon the work motto of the fishmongers at Pikes Place Fish Market in Seattle, Washington.  It's simple, clear, and to the point.  And it's AWESOME!

Be There

This refers to the concept of being emotionally present for people.  For myself, this is the key aspect of the whole philosophy.  I believe it is of utmost importance that we are emotionally invested in the people we interact with daily.  It is much easier to make positive progress with people if they feel you are interested in them and their well-being, and they are able to communicate and relate to you on some kind of level. 

Play 

This idea emphasizes being creative, enthusiastic, and having fun.  Unfortunately, beyond childhood, I think many people tend to forget the importance of having fun.  Something as simple as a smile can make someone else's day.  Many of us are at our best when we're playing.  Everyone needs to experience play, at every age.  Most people will learn more when they're having a good time.  Work doesn't even feel like work when you're having fun.  Find ways to incorporate more fun and play into your day, you won't be sorry!

Make Their Day

This statement is all about finding simple ways to serve or delight people in a meaningful, memorable way.  Doing something for somebody else simply for the sake of making them happy, and not expecting something in return.  What a wonderful feeling it is to do something good for another person!  Your day is bound to go a whole lot smoother if those around you are in good spirits as well.

Choose Your Attitude

This concept focuses on taking responsibility for how you respond to what life sends your way. 
"I discovered I always have choices and sometimes it's only a choice of attitude."  - Judith M. Knowlton.  As Ms. Knowlton so brilliantly states, it's not always up to us when it comes to the things that happen in our lives.  We can, however, always choose how we are going to react to these things, and that makes all of the difference.  Choose to be miserable, or choose to be happy.  Choose to return a rude comment from a student, or choose to compliment them instead.  Anything can be super if you put a smile on your face, and convince yourself it's going to be.

One of the things that is so great about this philosophy is that it is extremely broad.  It can be used to improve a workplace, a classroom setting, dynamics in a home or for relationships in general.  Plain and simply, it just helps the world to be a better place.