TGIF: Ted Lasso’s Workplace Wisdom — Be a Goldfish!

Happy Friday, folks! As we wrap up another week, I find myself channeling my inner Ted Lasso to tackle a challenging long-term project. If you’re not familiar with the lovable, optimistic coach from AFC Richmond, you’re missing out on a goldmine of life and work advice wrapped in a mustache and a Kansas drawl. Even though the show ended over a year ago, I still find myself missing it and reflecting on the valuable lessons it taught us.

Today’s Ted-spiration: ‘Be a goldfish.’

For those scratching their heads, let me explain. In one of the early episodes, Ted tells Sam, a player struggling with confidence, that a goldfish has a memory of only ten seconds. “Be a goldfish,” he says, encouraging Sam to quickly forget mistakes and move forward.

Now, while the science on goldfish memory might be a bit fishy (pun intended), the lesson is crystal clear and incredibly applicable to our work lives.

Applying the Goldfish Mentality at Work

1. Bounce Back from Setbacks: In any long-term project, setbacks are inevitable. The goldfish mentality encourages us to acknowledge the issue, learn from it, and then swim on. Don’t let past failures anchor you down.
2. Stay Present: Goldfish live in the now. In work terms, this means focusing on the task at hand rather than dwelling on past mistakes or anxiously anticipating future challenges.
3. Maintain Optimism: Goldfish don’t have the capacity to be pessimistic about their little bowl world. Adopting this mindset can help us approach each workday with renewed energy and positivity.
4. Adapt Quickly: Goldfish are surprisingly adaptable creatures. In the workplace, this translates to being flexible and ready to pivot when circumstances change.
5. Keep Swimming: Goldfish don’t have the luxury of taking a break from swimming — it’s how they breathe! Similarly, in long-term projects, consistent effort, even in small doses, keeps the momentum going.

Ted Lasso’s Ensemble of Workplace Wisdom

While Ted’s goldfish philosophy is a personal favorite, the show is brimming with workplace wisdom from its diverse cast of characters:

1. Roy Kent’s Blunt Honesty: “Don’t you dare settle for fine.” Roy’s gruff exterior hides a passion for excellence. In the workplace, this reminds us not to compromise on quality or settle for mediocrity. Push for your best, always.

2. Rebecca Welton’s Power Pose: “Before I go into the room, I find somewhere private, I stand up on my tiptoes, put my arms in the air and make myself as big as possible to feel my own power.” Rebecca’s journey from self-doubt to empowered leader is a masterclass in personal growth. This pre-meeting ritual she shares is more than just a quirky habit — it’s a scientifically-backed technique known as “power posing.” In the workplace, this reminds us of the importance of self-confidence and the impact our body language can have on our mindset. Before your next big presentation or challenging meeting, try channeling your inner Rebecca. Take a moment to strike a power pose and remind yourself of your own capability and worth. It’s amazing how a simple physical act can boost our confidence and change our entire approach to a situation.

3. Dani Rojas’ Unbridled Joy: “Football is life!” Dani’s infectious enthusiasm and love for his work is a reminder of how powerful a positive attitude can be. In the workplace, approaching tasks with genuine excitement can not only make your day more enjoyable but also inspire those around you.

4. Coach Beard’s Quiet Competence: “I think if you care about something, you should go for it.” Beard reminds us that actions speak louder than words. In the workplace, let your work ethic and results do the talking.

5. Nate’s Growth: “I wonder if the reason you’re not on the pitch is because you’re afraid you won’t be the best player out there.” Early in his journey, Nate shows how insight and honesty, even from unexpected sources, can be valuable. In the workplace, this reminds us to listen to all voices and to have the courage to speak up with our observations.

6. Sam Obisanya’s Integrity: “I don’t want them to change. I want them to want to change.” Sam’s stand against the team’s sponsor teaches us about the importance of aligning our work with our values, even when it’s difficult.

7. Ted’s Openness: “Be curious, not judgmental.” This profound piece of advice encapsulates Ted’s approach to leadership and life. In the workplace, it encourages us to seek understanding rather than jumping to conclusions. By approaching situations and people with curiosity instead of judgment, we open ourselves up to new ideas, better relationships, and innovative solutions.

Applying Ted Lasso Wisdom in the Workplace

Just as AFC Richmond became more than the sum of its parts, we can create a more positive and productive work environment by incorporating these diverse perspectives:

• Be a goldfish when facing setbacks, but have Roy Kent’s determination to never settle for less than your best.
• Boost your confidence like Rebecca, using power poses to remind yourself of your own capabilities.
• Bring Dani Rojas’ unbridled enthusiasm to your projects, remembering that “Football is life!” (or in our case, “Work is life!”).
• Embody Coach Beard’s quiet competence, letting your actions speak louder than words.
• Offer insights honestly like early-season Nate, recognizing that good ideas can come from anywhere.
• Stand up for your values like Sam, ensuring your work aligns with your principles.
• Approach challenges with Ted’s open-mindedness, being curious rather than judgmental.

But Why It Works

The ‘Be a goldfish’ philosophy isn’t about ignoring problems or avoiding responsibility. It’s about resilience. It’s recognizing that dwelling on setbacks often does more harm than good. By quickly moving past failures, we free up mental energy to focus on solutions and future success.

In my current project, adopting this mindset has been a game-changer. When I hit a roadblock, instead of ruminating on the problem, I take a deep breath, channel my inner goldfish, and look for the next play. It’s amazing how a simple shift in perspective can turn a bad day around.

As Ted himself would say, “Taking on a challenge is a lot like riding a horse. If you’re comfortable while you’re doing it, you’re probably doing it wrong.” So let’s embrace the discomfort of growth, the joy of teamwork, and the power of belief in ourselves and others.

Your Turn

What TV character’s advice resonates with your work style? Are you channeling Arya Stark’s adaptability and determination from Game of Thrones, always ready to face new challenges with her “Not today” attitude? Or perhaps you relate more to Ellie from The Last of Us, with her resilience and ability to find moments of levity even in the toughest situations?

Or maybe there’s another Ted Lasso character we didn’t mention that you particularly relate to in your work. Do you embody Keeley’s creativity and enthusiasm, or perhaps Roy Kent’s straightforward, no-nonsense approach?

Share your character-inspired work wisdom in the comments. How do you apply these fictional figures’ traits to your professional life?

Remember, as Ted would say, “I believe in believe.” So whether you’re navigating the complexities of Westeros, surviving a post-apocalyptic world, or coaching football, believe in yourself, your team, and the power of positive thinking in the workplace.

Happy Friday, everyone! May your weekend be as refreshing as a goldfish’s memory, and may you return to work on Monday ready to take on challenges with the optimism of Ted Lasso, the adaptability of Arya Stark, and the resilience of Ellie!