Week 1 response to William

I will have to agree that the concepts presented in the first three chapters are nothing new and is very similar to many self help book out there. in my case the books discussion has been very similar to my many rants with my colleagues about corporate innovation, (to find out more read my blog). The truth is this book seems to be presenting a series of exercises to expand our way of thinking and develop critical thinking skills.

Good read and good luck.

William's Post

 I found this reading to be very akin to many other books I have read on the topics of positive thinking or result-minded thinking.  The primary difference present that truly struck a chord with my manner of analytical thinking was the simple question, “How?”  How is my approach to the problem in front of me affecting my finding the solution I need?  The practice steps at the end of the chapter provide suitable guidance for focusing the analysis of the situation; assess and reassess.  By slowing down and examining how I am approaching a problem, I have a much better chance to find a flaw in my thoughts that may be limiting results.

     The phrase “it’s all invented anyway” is a perfect companion to positive thinking titles I have read.  All the way back to Lincoln’s quotation about the man that thinks he can or thinks he can’t, is right either way.  Our attitude affects the world around us, for better or worse.  After all, the world is how we choose to perceive it, so, naturally, you should choose a perception that will benefit you better.

     Finally, my thoughts lingered on the rafting story and the phrase, “out of the boat.”  It’s not enough to know where you are and where you are going.  Once you find yourself “out of the boat” you need some guiding principal to fall back on.  Far different from finding yourself off course, “out of the boat” refers to being completely lost with little or no frame of reference.  In the river, “toes to nose” puts one in the proper position to let the natural flow of the water put you back in familiar territory.  Life, however, is not as straightforward as a flowing river.  You will find times when you cannot find your own way, and it is important to have the relationships and fundamental values to guide you back to where you belong.  I look forward to completing the rest of this book, and plan to search for more video presentations as well.