Why should you be a “goldfish”? 

As Ted Lasso would say, “be a goldfish.” This often used phrase means to let go of your past mistakes and failures and move on with a fresh start. Goldfish are said to have a 10-second memory, meaning they can quickly think about something, forget it, and move on to the next thing in their environment. This is an excellent lesson in life, and it’s something that everyone can learn from.

It’s easy to get caught up in your past mistakes and think about them over and over again. This overthinking can lead to negative thinking patterns, anxiety, and even depression. It’s essential to be able to let go of things that have happened in the past and focus on the present moment. When you let go of past mistakes, you free up mental space and can focus on what is happening right now.

Being a goldfish means learning to be present in the moment and not allowing past failures to define you. When you make a mistake, acknowledge it, learn from it, and let it go. Goldfish have a natural ability to let go of things, and we can learn from them. It’s not about forgetting your past altogether, but rather, it’s about learning from it and moving forward.

Even though being a goldfish means letting go of your past mistakes, it doesn’t mean forgetting about the lessons you learned from them. Use those lessons as stepping stones for growth and development, and don’t let them hold you back. Every day is a new opportunity to start fresh and be the best version of yourself.

The Benefits of Being a “Goldfish”

In a figurative sense, the phrase “like a goldfish” is often used to refer to someone who has a short attention span or forgets things easily. While this comparison may seem negative, there are actually some benefits to being a “goldfish” in certain situations.

1. Living in the moment: Goldfish have a short memory, which means that they don’t dwell on past events or worry about the future. Instead, they live in the present moment and enjoy their surroundings. This can be a valuable skill for humans who tend to get caught up in their thoughts and emotions.

2. Letting go of grudges: Goldfish don’t hold grudges because they can’t remember past conflicts. They simply move on and focus on the present. This can be a valuable lesson for humans who often hold onto negative feelings towards others.

3. Being adaptable: Goldfish are adaptable creatures that can survive in a variety of environments. They can live in small fishbowls or large aquariums and can thrive in both freshwater and saltwater. This adaptability can be a valuable skill for humans who need to be able to adapt to changing circumstances.

4. Appreciating simplicity: Goldfish don’t need much to be happy. They can thrive in a simple environment with just a few decorations and some food. This can be a valuable lesson for humans who often get caught up in material possessions and the need for constant stimulation.

While being a “goldfish” may not be ideal in all situations, there are certainly some benefits to living in the moment, letting go of grudges, being adaptable, and appreciating simplicity. So, the next time you find yourself dwelling on past regrets, remember to be a goldfish. Let go of those negative thoughts and focus on the present moment. With this mindset, you can overcome any obstacle and reach your full potential.

It is important that we forgive ourselves for making mistakes. We need to learn from our errors and move on.