21A – Reading Reflection No. 2

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

1) What was the general theme or argument of the book?

This book, by the title, is pretty general. It reflects the themes of perseverance, and trials as a way to refine and learn. I think that he really is set on the idea that passions (like in his chapter passion is bullshit) is not really the drive or at least the thing we need to drive off of. He wants to keep things realistic and is focused on efficiency.

2) How did the book, in your opinion, connect with and enhance what you are learning in ENT 3003?

The book connected with the ideas in class of efficiency and really enhanced the topic of self help for me. He gave awesome pointers on how to be successful by starting at the core which is you. It seems selfish but he shows that for our businesses to ever help anyone we have to be helped first whether that is through social capital or physical health.

3) If you had to design an exercise for this class, based on the book you read, what would that exercise involve?

I would start an exercise that implements systems. Not only in this book but also in different areas of my life, including one of the clubs I am in, there is a need for systems. Goals are great but systems get the job done. I would start by encouraging class members to think of a goal they think is realistic. Then instead of setting them on their way with just a goal, we would sit down and figure out how to systematically achieve it. We would continue that system until it failed or until it needed reform, and then we would keep going. Eventually it will work.

4) 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?

I think that the biggest thing that I learned or at least the most surprising think to me from this book was his almost adverse thoughts of authority figures. He talks about how he would continuously not listen to what authorities said, mom, dad, or even his doctors. He starts to develop of lens of the world that questions everything. And I think that I should develop a thicker lens like this, well maybe not as thick. But I do think that it is important to be head strong sometimes, especially when seeking to achieve a goal.