21A- Reading Reflection No. 2

Book: How to Fail at Almost Everything and Still Win Big, By Scott Adams

What was the general theme or argument of the book?
The general theme of this book was Adams sharing how all of his little failures throughout his life, eventually led him to be extremely successful.  He outlines various strategies and principles that he applies to his life in order to be happier and more successful in your work life.

How did the book, in your opinion, connect with and enhance what you are learning in ENT3003?
The book connects with what I learned because entrepreneurship is all about doing something that you enjoy doing and following your passion.   Adams emphasizes that you should search for work where you are comfortable with your skills.  If you search in a sector where you are comfortable with failure, eventually you will find something that you enjoy doing and can make a living off of.  We also learn that you should be patient when on your entrepreneurial journey.  Adams also says this and says that young people get down on themselves too quickly without allowing sufficient time for success.

If you had to design an exercise for this class, based on the book you read, what would that exercise involve?
If I had to design an exercise, I would have the students create a system similar to what Adams outlined in his book.  Adams says that systems are more useful than goals because goals do not give you instant gratification, and you can get down on yourself if you don't achieve it.  Create a system to efficiently do work and over time you will see successes.  The students will make a system based on what their aspirations and hobbies are.  I will also have students identify some of their strengths, and some of the jobs that they could do based on those strengths, in order for them to find something that they could possibly want to do with their life and are comfortable with.

What was your biggest surprise or 'aha' moment when reading the book? In other words, what did you learn that differed most from your expectations?
There were a few learning points I had throughout the book.   The biggest one for me was what I mentioned earlier about creating systems instead of goals.  Creating various components in your life that help you work towards what you want to do in life is a lot more efficient than setting goals.  Goals can be discouraging if not met, but systems should be used throughout your life and thus will constantly help you have big achievements.  The other learning point I had was to try various jobs that play off your strengths, and find something that you enjoy doing and works with a schedule you want.