Introduction

Fish! by Stephen C. Lundin is a simple yet powerful parable that reveals how any workplace can be energized and transformed through a shift in attitude and behavior. Drawing inspiration from the lively, customer-focused culture of Seattle’s Pike Place Fish Market, Lundin shows how four core principles can revolutionize morale, engagement, and productivity.

This book isn’t just a feel-good story—it’s a practical guide for leaders and teams seeking to create a culture where people are motivated, connected, and eager to contribute their best. Whether you manage a small team or a large organization, Fish! provides actionable insights to combat workplace burnout, increase collaboration, and ultimately improve business outcomes by putting fun, purpose, and choice at the center of daily work.


Top 10 Lessons from Fish! by Stephen C. Lundin

1. Choose Your Attitude

You can’t control every circumstance, but you can choose your response. A positive mindset sets the tone for everything you do at work.

2. Play

Injecting fun and energy into work fosters creativity and reduces stress. Play isn’t just for kids—it’s a powerful tool for engagement.

3. Make Their Day

Small acts of kindness and appreciation towards coworkers and customers create memorable experiences and build loyalty.

4. Be Present

Give your full attention to people and tasks. Being fully engaged improves communication, trust, and the quality of work.

5. Energy Is Contagious

The enthusiasm you bring to your work influences those around you, helping to create a vibrant and productive environment.

6. Ownership Fuels Motivation

When employees feel responsible for their role and empowered to make decisions, they take pride in their work and deliver better results.

7. Recognition Boosts Morale

Acknowledging efforts and achievements inspires continued high performance and strengthens team bonds.

8. Positivity Improves Problem Solving

A positive workplace mindset helps teams approach challenges with creativity and resilience rather than frustration and defeat.

9. Culture Is Built Daily

Great workplace culture isn’t accidental—it’s the result of consistent behaviors and attitudes demonstrated by everyone, especially leadership.

10. You Can Transform Any Workplace

No matter the size or industry, applying these principles can turn a disengaged team into a passionate, high-performing unit.


Fish! offers a straightforward yet profound roadmap for leaders and employees alike who want to create workplaces where people thrive. By choosing attitude, engaging fully, and focusing on others, organizations can unlock untapped potential and drive meaningful results.

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