Spoiler alert! And a reminder that this is definitely NOT a promotion of any form of violence.

Despite all the murder, I think there's a lot we can learn from Chef.

I just finished watching the acclaimed thriller/comedy of the year, and found the whole experience mesmerizing. The acting was fantastic, the story was gripping, and the visuals were addicting. I'm hungry.

I couldn't stop thinking about how successful Chef is both with his customers and his staff.

1. Create an unforgettable experience

One of the most puzzling elements of the film is the degree to which the customers continue to go along with the menu even once they become convinced they won't survive it. Chef is a masterful story teller, and the customers are enamored with what he is laying out for them - until their final moments.

How do you stand out as a small business if you can't compete on price or delivery? Craft an unforgettable experience.

2. Treat your staff with love and respect, not fear.

Despite the echoed chant of "we love you chef!" by the entire kitchen staff, it's clear that the team is held together by abuse and a sense of collective victimhood.

When you run a small business you rely on a dedicated team of just a few employees to keep things running. Give them responsibility and reward their efforts. Focus on intention and effort, not just outcomes.

The more you give your employees, the more they will give back.

3. Don't forget to have fun!

Tragically, it was his distance from the simple joy of cooking that led Chef down the violent path that punctuated his career. He no longer knew how to have fun.

There's a lot to worry about when you're running a small business. How are you going to make rent? Where can you expand your customer base? How will each small decision affect the bottom line?

But you need to remember why you got into this in the first place.

If you're not having fun, you're just going to become bitter and unhappy - regardless of how financially successful you might be.

So again, please don't organize a mass murder human s'mores scene, but do appreciate the perils of tying your identity to a small business. Treat yourself and others around you with love and compassion.