Starting something new is never easy. That’s why we always remember the first time we did it. I remember the first time I rode a bike and I remember when I started my first job at McDonalds. Yes, McDonalds.

I also remember when S. Truett Cathy, the founder of Chick-fil-A, was at one of the yearly seminars that Chick-fil-A hosts for its Operators and spouses. He spoke about being at another restaurant and hearing them say, “My pleasure.” It made such an impact on him that he decided that he wanted all of our team members to start saying it as well.

I remember writing it down: “WE are going to do this the second we get back.” It’s been over a decade since I heard Truett speak about that and I’ve learned a few things about starting new things.

Starting something new is always awkward at first.

Anytime you try something new your muscle memory is not ready for it. You have to do it a few times to get the hang of it. All those crazy tapes go off in your head like the screaming of a smoke alarm saying ” they wont believe you, you are being fake, Why should it matter, they will stare at you.” Yes, this is natural, and maybe you will be a little self conscious of it. Don’t worry, this will pass.

Get into the habit of saying it.

You will find saying it comes naturally after a while. You will find that when you go to school you will open a door for someone and say it or you will hand in a homework assignment and your teacher will say thank you and you will say my pleasure. Some of your friends will tease you at first, but eventually it will be part of your lingo. I have heard over the years many times how if your short with someone, or rude you get chewed out, but I have never heard of anyone getting in trouble for being too polite.

Your body will follow suit.

The Bible says faith comes from hearing, and hearing the word of God. Just by hearing yourself say “My Pleasure” I think it opens you up to take action on it. What is your purpose at work,? If it is to ultimately serve others, you’re in the right place.

According to a Forbes article from 8/2013:
16 Things You Should Do At The Start Of Every Work Day

Remind ourselves its our pleasure to serve our guests… You will find that your attitude becomes better, your demeanor will improve, and your energy will increase.

It is never easy. I watched a video the other day showing how often Truett had to remind the operators to train our teams to say “My pleasure.” In 12 seminars he told us over and over. (I guess not everyone jumped on it like me.)

If he had to tell owners or franchisees this over and over, we will not remember every time either. But the more you do it, the more it will become second nature… As far as my team goes, it is a requirement.