Wk 2 Reading Blog Post

I had some trouble this week with the reading assignments.  Not the actual reading part, but keeping an open mind when I was doing it.  You see I am a rather conservative person.  I believe that individuals are given certain opportunities and it is up to us to make the most of them.  I am still digesting chapters 4-6 but with my background in mind, here are my initial thoughts on each.

Chapter 4 - Being a Contribution
Something makes me uneasy about this chapter.  It basically says to me that rather than try to achieve goals, just be happy to do anything.  Don't strive to be great, just exist and be happy you did so.  Are there people who live like this?  Sure, lots of them.  But I don't think those are the people who make a difference in life.  The dissatisfaction with our condition is what caused mankind to leave caves and discover fire.  The constant striving to better ones self and leave a better life for our children is what has driven humanity.  It's what drives me.  It's why are are all putting ourselves through this EMDT program.  I am open to the possibility I don't understand what the author is trying to say, but that's my take so far.

Chapter 5 - Leading from Any Chair
As much as I didn't like the previous chapter, I liked this one.  I understand what the authors are trying to say here.  They are saying that you can be a leader no matter what your actual job title or role in life.  What I don't understand is how you be a leader without wanting to change anything, which is the condition Chapter 4 would leave you in.  I look at these chapters as sort of contradictory.  In my current job I am trying to make a difference and lead from my chair.

Chapter 6 -   Rule Number 6
I agree with Rule Number 6 to a point but there are things in life that MUST be taken seriously.  That being said, many people including me could stand to lighten up a bit.  I have found that strong emotions tend to cloud one's judgment.  It's very Vulcan if you think about it.

I am interesting in reading some comments about my take on these things!