Today, I’ll clean fish
He stood at the counter with five boxes of Ziplock baggies. The cashier told the fisherman to “have a good day” as he walked out the door.
“Any day I can clean fish is a good day,” he replied with a smile.
Then I smiled. It’s that simple.
I’ve been looking for the secret to happiness, and all along, it was as simple as that: cleaning fish.
Cleaning fish meant he’d been successful in his endeavor for that day; his stringer was full; his work had not been for nothing.
Cleaning fish meant he’d been rewarded for hard work and determination.
Cleaning fish meant he’d have food for supper.
This man was happy, content. He had figured it all out. I envied him.
If only cleaning fish held the key to happiness.
“Why can’t it be that simple?” I wondered, then answered myself.
It can when you look at all the things you “get to do” instead of complaining about the things you “have to do.”
Maybe the secret of life isn’t cleaning fish — maybe the secret lies in knowing the difference between “having to” clean fish and “getting to” clean fish.
It’s a simple shift of perspective. Whatever your version of ‘cleaning fish’ is, I hope it holds the secret to your happiness.
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These are my personal recommendations. I’ve read them and love them. Pick up these books wherever you shop or support my efforts by using the Amazon links provided.
About the book: This book is rich and a needed read for everyone who feels they’ve lost their purpose. “Happiness comes from what we do. Fulfillment comes from why we do it.”
About the book: Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara would never have been on my radar if I hadn’t heard him speak. Now, I think it should be required reading for every manager.