Quickthink

A nice person who came to the blog for the first time sent me an email asking “What is this all about?” Hmmmm ….. I realized that perhaps a short “primer” for new readers would help answer the question

As a general rule, I would suggest that new readers keep in mind and use the rule Douglas Adams offers in the Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy

“Don’t Panic!”

This is all just good fun!  But (slightly) more seriously, the short answer to the question is that this blog is a learning McGuffin.  Huh? Ok, I am not sure precisely what that means either. But it sounds great.

Here is what this blog is not

1. It will not cause weight loss, halitosis, or cure any obscure or indeed any known diseases.

2. It does not sell anything sells learning, but at very cheap prices

3. It is not the diabolical voice of an obscure and dangerous religious cult or political party

4. It does not purport to give any great answers to any deep questions

So, what is a McGuffin? Hitchckock fans will not need further explanation. For the rest of you, the blog is …..

1. Fun? Well, ok,It is supposed to be

2. Opinionated? — like any conversation might be, so that we have something to talk about over a beer

3. Promoting links? —- Yes, we have an open door here and try to track interesting things that are going on around the planet. And who knows. From time to time connect people.

4. Empowering? — Now that is a fun word. Wonder what it actually means.

5. Short? —- Yes. The author realizes that you may not make reading QT your primary daily activity.

6. Stimulating? Well, yes, we are in the business here of promoting stories.

A McGuffin then is a storyline that anchors your attention so that other fun things can happen. Like in this TED video where Jill Taylor talks about her stroke. A hint — the video is not really about the stroke itself. And that is what a great life is all about, isn’t it? Being part of great stories that we act out and talk about. Some of us dare create stories, and I value that skill rather highly. Hence my fascination with the concept of leadership. But leader or not, we all need to recognize great stories when we bump into them. And we need the courage to take part in them as we can. Hence my fascination with “projects” and start ups and innovation and all the rest.

So, now do you have a clear idea of what to expect?