Assignment 21A - Reading Reflection No. 2

1. What was the general theme or argument of the book?

The book is about the life of Elon Musk before and after he becomes a billionaire. It tells us the struggles he had at home and school as a kid and more importantly the things that make him the man he is today. Even after selling PayPal to eBay for 1.6 billion, Musk didn't stop asking questions to himself on what is he going to do next, and the next goal would be saving the human kind.

2. How did the book, in your opinion, connect with and enhance what you are learning in ENT 3003?

The book has inspired me to read more and more books just like this assignment, in fact, Musk read 60 books a month during his childhood and college days. Moreover, it thought me to start questioning my problems instead of answering it in the first place as well as focusing on one goal instead of many because according to Musk, an entrepreneur has to stick on what he/she believes and be determined to succeed, even by breaking social norms and rules. This book has enhanced the way I think in making sure the business plan I'm working on the ENT class is better in all aspects and make me determined.

3. If you had to design an exercise for this class, based on the book you read, what would that exercise involve?

A 1 on 1 interview with an entrepreneur.  

4. What was your biggest surprise or 'aha' moment when reading the book? In other words, what did you learn that differed most from your expectations?

Elon Musk has the power to think outside the box, which is the most important element to be an entrepreneur. I was surprised that he co-founded PayPal after college, the first non-cash transaction service. Then he started Tesla, the first fully electric car with self-driving technology, then solar panel business, then SpaceX. All in all, Elon Musk has been pushing the boundary of what is possible. The first taste of success with PayPal was just the beginning of his adventure. The confidence he had after succeeding in PayPal will not stop him. I found it really inspiring.