Be a Goldfish: Live Like Lasso

Ted Lasso's Top Tips for Crushing It in Life and Building Killer Relationships

If you haven't watched Ted Lasso yet, you're missing out on one of the most heartwarming and inspiring shows on television. The show's central character, Ted Lasso, is a beacon of positivity and happiness, and his philosophy can teach us a lot about how to live our own lives with more joy and purpose.

With the Season 3 teaser available now, what better time to share Ted’s principles with you. Here are just a few of the principles that Ted Lasso embodies, and how they can help us cultivate happiness and well-being in our own lives.

Start where you are.

One of the most important lessons that Ted Lasso teaches us is the value of starting where we are, rather than waiting for the perfect conditions or circumstances to begin. When Ted takes over as coach of the fictional AFC Richmond soccer team, he knows next to nothing about the sport or the culture surrounding it. But rather than feeling overwhelmed or intimidated, he embraces the challenge with enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.

In our own lives, we can apply this principle by focusing on what we can do, rather than what we can't. Whether we're starting a new job, learning a new skill, or pursuing a new hobby, we can approach it with an open mind and a willingness to learn from our mistakes. By embracing the journey and focusing on progress rather than perfection, we can cultivate a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment that contributes to our overall happiness.

Value feedback from those who matter (and forget the rest).

Another important principle that Ted Lasso embodies is the importance of feedback and collaboration. Throughout the show, Ted seeks out input and feedback from his colleagues, players, and even his rivals, recognizing that everyone has something to contribute and that working together is the key to success.

In our own lives, we can apply this principle by seeking out feedback from those who matter to us, whether it's in our personal or professional relationships. By actively listening to others' perspectives and valuing their input, we can build stronger connections and create a sense of community that contributes to our overall happiness.

At the same time, it's important to remember that not all feedback is equal, and that we should be discerning in whose opinions we value. Ted Lasso is able to distinguish between constructive feedback and criticism that doesn't serve him or his team, and we can apply the same discernment in our own lives. By prioritizing feedback that comes from a place of care and respect, we can stay grounded in our own values and goals, and avoid getting sidetracked by unhelpful opinions.

Be a goldfish.

One of Ted Lasso's most memorable pieces of advice is to "be a goldfish," a reference to the idea that goldfish have a short memory and don't dwell on the past. By embracing this mentality, Ted is able to move on from setbacks and failures quickly and focus on the present and future.

In our own lives, we can apply this principle by learning to let go of grudges, resentments, and regrets. By adopting a more forgiving and compassionate attitude, we can free ourselves from the weight of negative emotions and cultivate a sense of lightness and ease that contributes to our overall happiness.

Nurture the best version of yourself.

Another key principle that Ted Lasso embodies is the importance of self-care and personal growth. Throughout the show, Ted takes care of his physical and mental health, prioritizing exercise, healthy eating, and regular check-ins with a therapist.

In our own lives, we can apply this principle by making self-care a priority, whether it's through exercise, meditation, therapy, or simply taking time for ourselves to recharge and relax. By nurturing the best version of ourselves, we can cultivate a sense of confidence and self-worth that contributes to our overall happiness.

Make quality connections.

One of the most heartwarming aspects of Ted Lasso is the way it depicts the power of human connection. Ted Lasso recognizes that the relationships we build with others are essential to our happiness and well-being, and he goes out of his way to connect with his players, colleagues, and even his rivals on a personal level.

In our own lives, we can apply this principle by prioritizing quality connections over quantity. By investing time and energy in building deep, meaningful relationships with the people who matter to us, we can cultivate a sense of belonging and support that contributes to our overall happiness.

Make others look/feel good.

Another important principle that Ted Lasso embodies is the importance of making others feel good. Throughout the show, Ted goes out of his way to lift up his players and colleagues, whether it's through a kind word, a thoughtful gesture, or a well-timed joke.

In our own lives, we can apply this principle by adopting a more generous and positive attitude toward others. By making an effort to be kind, compassionate, and supportive of those around us, we can create a sense of joy and connection that contributes to our overall happiness.

Don't take yourself too seriously - be vulnerable.

Finally, Ted Lasso reminds us of the importance of vulnerability and humility. Despite his successes as a coach and leader, he remains humble and self-effacing, never taking himself too seriously and always willing to admit his mistakes and shortcomings.

In our own lives, we can apply this principle by embracing vulnerability and authenticity, rather than trying to present a perfect or polished image of ourselves to others. By being open and honest about our struggles and imperfections, we can cultivate a sense of trust and intimacy in our relationships, and create a sense of freedom and ease that contributes to our overall happiness.

In conclusion, Ted Lasso is much more than just a feel-good television show. It's a masterclass in how to cultivate happiness and well-being in our own lives, by embracing principles like starting where we are, valuing feedback from those who matter, being a goldfish, nurturing the best version of ourselves, making quality connections, making others look/feel good, and not taking ourselves too seriously. By adopting these principles in our own lives, we can create a sense of joy, purpose, and connection that makes life worth living. So go ahead and be a little more like Ted Lasso - your happiness will thank you for it.