Week 3 Reading Reflection

In reading that running and weightlifting were the two types of exercise that benefited entrepreneurs the most. To find that running specifically (which I have on many occasions enjoyed), positively impacted sales volume, extrinsic rewards, and intrinsic rewards was a pleasant surprise.

I think the only confusing part was in reference to optimism. First, to mention that this is a trait most entrepreneurs have, but then to come back close to the end of the chapter and mention "unrealistic optimism" is taking it to the extreme and can cause more harm than good, does not really give a clear picture if optimism is good or bad. I think anything can be bad if not handled properly just as being independent can alienate you from others. Therefore, was it really necessary to point out optimism has a possibility of being unrealistic...

Two questions I would ask:

1. Is optimism really something an entrepreneur has or is it something they believe they need to have in order to move forward in their venture? Meaning, is this innate or is it formed as in a means to meet an end?
2. Referencing the typology of entrepreneurial styles, if there is a low level of profit motivation and low personal risk, how does that fit into the author's definition of entrepreneurship?

I think the stance of psychic risk addressed in the chapter was a bit melodramatic. I do agree all risk has a dark side to it, but the emphasis that psychological risk has proven too severe to bounce back is stating this is the one area that causes individuals to go over the edge. In reality, for example, financial risk can do harm and cause individuals to drink or search for some other way to escape the "real" world after losing their life savings to a failed business venture. In fact, as the chapter alludes, it can impact the family and there is a chance of losing a spouse and children due to the willingness of the risks taken. So yes all risk has a dark side, but all have opportunities of never recovering unless you find it within yourself to overcome the failure, dust yourself off, and move forward.