I took on this assignment as more of a personal growing experience, not just an assignment that would regurgitate back to you what the author had done or learned along their journey. There are many business lessons we learn in growing up. For example: don't put all of your eggs in one basket, or hard work and dedication pay off. In college we also learn that you should be prepared to take a chance. All of these are great things to be taught, and they are also just a few of the things Walton discusses in his book, Made In America. However, the things that influenced me the most in this life-long story, were some of the remarkable things he did to stay on top, and the choices he made in his personal life along the way. These things were what set Sam Walton apart from every other entrepreneur in America. .
I found in the beginning that it is very important to be a well-rounded individual. It is important to know enough about everything to do a complete job. From hanging fixtures to sweeping floors, to book keeping, Mr. Walton did it all. He did whatever was necessary to keep the business running, and in the beginning his family did it all by themselves. I have been in several activities from athletics in both high school and college to counseling and at my current internship I am learning the process and procedures that go with the day-to-day life of owning and operating your own business. Some of the people I have encountered along my way could one day be a connection to aide in business decisions. Also, all of the knowledge from interning and the people-skills from counseling will help me handle people and decisions in the future.
It is important to take on challenges. If something isn't challenging, then it probably will not keep my attention very long, and if it will not keep my attention then it probably will not last very long. Sam Walton had goals for every business move he made.
