Richard Shell is a Professor at Wharton Business School and a world renowned negotiation expert. At Wharton He created the Success Course to help his world-class MBA students answer two questions that aren’t as obvious as they seem: “What, for me, is success?” and “How will I achieve it?” . Based on that acclaimed course, his book Springboard shows how to assess the hidden influences of family, media, and culture on your beliefs about success. Then it helps you figure out your unique passions and capabilities, so you can focus more on what gives meaning and excitement to your life, and less on what you are “supposed” to want.

Big Ideas

What is success for you?

  1. We are all very different and we shouldn’t follow the path others have laid out for us.
  2. Success auto-pilot = running full steam ahead to achieve other people’s goals.
    • Example: You get a promotion and you feel empty inside.
  3. Outward success is not inner success

It’s your responsibility to define success for yourself.

  1. Your future lies in your past
    • We need to reconnect with that part of our past.

Happiness

  1. For some it is achievement oriented
  2. It’s not about the smiley face happy.
  3. Momentary happiness –
    • It’s not possible all the time
  4. Deep happiness
    • Moments of connection
    • In awe

Dissatisfaction is not bad – as long as you are aware of it and harnessing it the right way.

Specific Actions

  1. Do what you must to wake up. Recognize Dissatisfaction. It’s a journey full of effort
  2. Train in self respect. Train in respecting your values. Your ideals.
  3. Recognize that life is about effort and not instant gratification
  4. Be self Compassionate and be willing to change
    • Don’t try to control everything
    • Be open to moments of joy

Interview Links

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