Breaking the Wood

Summary: Pat Flynn shares a childhood anecdote about a taekwondo class where he struggled to break a wooden board. He repeatedly punched and kicked the board with increasing force, but it wouldn't break. His sensei intervened, repositioning the board so that the grain of the wood aligned with the direction of Flynn's punch, allowing him to break it easily. Insights:

• Working harder doesn't always equate to better results. Sometimes, a change in approach is more effective than increased effort.
• Understanding the underlying structure or 'grain' of a problem is crucial for finding the most efficient solution.
• Mentorship and guidance can provide valuable insights and help overcome obstacles that seem insurmountable through individual effort. Proper Nouns:
• Pat Flynn: The host of the podcast and the narrator of the anecdote.
• Taekwondo: A Korean martial art that emphasizes kicking and striking techniques.
• Sensei: A Japanese term for a teacher or instructor in martial arts. Research
• What are other common examples of people "going against the grain" in business or life?
• How can one identify the "grain" of a problem or challenge?
• What are the benefits of seeking mentorship and guidance when facing difficulties?