What I've Learned in Real Life

I was cleaning out my computer's hard drive today when I came across this short note to myself that I wrote several years ago. I never did anything with it, but I feel it still holds true.

What I learned in the training business.

1.    You can’t please everyone every time. There will always be someone who doesn’t like your style or the fact that you don’t “follow the manual.”

2.    Groupthink kills creativity.

What I learned in the film business.

1.    When you are the responsible person and there is a problem, you do not ever, ever, assume that someone else will take care of it for you. You may not be able to solve the problem all by yourself, but you have to stay right on top of it until the issue is resolved—even if it means working 48 hours straight.

2.    It is easier to get forgiveness than permission.

What I learned in the military.

1.    Teamwork is everything. Your life depends on it.

2.    Appearances count more than reality. If the old man is coming to inspect the troops, make sure your boots are shined and your truck is freshly painted. He’ll think everything is fine.

What I learned in college.

1.    Nothing.