The Restaurant Doctor - Electronic House Call

ELECTRONIC HOUSE CALL - December 24, 1999

GO HOME
Spend time with your loved ones and let the rest of the world turn without you for a day or so. Give yourself a break from the rigors of commerce. Allow yourself to recall that the spirit of the holiday season -- or any season for that matter -- is gratitude. My holiday wish for you is that you be grateful for the situations of your life, whatever they may be.

Be grateful for the opportunity to have hung out with your parents. That time is all too brief. However it looks now, they were always doing the best they could at the time in a tough job with no training. They have wonderful lessons to teach if you only have the courage to ask, but ask while you still can. What did you learn from your parents today?

Be grateful for the love of your mate. None of us can do it alone, even if we think we can. It would be a much lonlier road to travel without someone to do it for. Don't forget that you are never successful unless things are working at home as well as on the job. If you have the courage to allow it, your mate can turn out to be your best friend and best teacher. What did you learn from your mate today?

Be grateful for the children, for they constantly remind us of the innate curiosity, innocence and joy of living that is our true nature. The years seem to build a crust over that free self-expression but we can reclaim it if we have the courage. Be adult, but don't put too much value on "growing up." Teach the children the things they ask for and don't be afraid to be a student yourself. What did you learn from your kids today?

Be grateful to have been led into an industry that has as its central focus making others feel welcome and well cared-for. What could be a more noble calling? In the hustle and hassle of making a living, don't forget that the hospitality business is about being hospitable. If you can create and maintain that climate, people will beat a path to your door. What did you learn from your guests today?

Be grateful for your staff. If you could do it all by yourself you probably would, but it wouldn't be nearly as much fun. Accept the awesome responsibility of helping the members of your crew to find their excellence, whatever that may be. Celebrate their victories and help them through their lessons, for they truly are a mirror for your life. What did you learn from your staff today?

Be grateful to live in a country, however flawed, that allows you the opportunity for self expression and a chance to rise or fall based on your own vision, skills and desire. This is still only a dream in many parts of the world so don't blow it. And don't worry about making mistakes -- a mistake is only a situation that you don't learn and grow from. What did you learn from your life today?

I am grateful for the opportunity to make a living by learning. My warmest wishes for the holiday season.

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