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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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Work the System summary
Sam Carpenter
The Simple Mechanics of Making More and Working Less
14 mins
Brief summary
Work the System by Sam Carpenter is a business book that teaches how to create systems and processes that can improve efficiency and productivity. It highlights how to optimize work processes for the greatest results.
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Work the System
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Key idea 1 of 7
Get the systems mind-set: the world is a logical system of processes, not a chaotic mess.
Do you ever feel like you are just a helpless grain of sand in a dust storm of chaos beyond your control? Well, it’s not chaos that rules the world, but an underlying inherent order, even if we can’t always see it.
Think about it: No one is in charge of running the world, yet everything works fine 99.9 percent of the time. How can this be?
This is because systems, i.e., multitudes of diverse parts all working together to accomplish a single goal, are inherently inclined to stability and efficiency.
There are all sorts of systems that work together perfectly every day without you even noticing. In some faraway place, for example, oil is extracted from the earth using carefully engineered methods and machinery. That oil is then transported to refineries by sea, road, rail or pipeline, and finally delivered to a myriad of gas stations for your convenience.
When there is chaos or dysfunction within a system, it is largely the result of human flaws.
Whereas systems tend to run smoothly, human beings are inclined to make mistakes. Unsatisfactory outcomes aren’t the consequence of fate or bad luck, but rather are proof of our ability to exert our influence on processes.
The global financial crisis, for example, wasn’t blind bad luck. It was the result of a series of bad decisions made by people.
Moreover, our assessment as to whether systems are functioning as they should is largely subjective, since what qualifies as a “positive outcome” depends so heavily on our perspective.
For example, you may personally find it scandalous that gas prices are so high. An oil-exporting nation, however, will view the situation somewhat differently.
The situation, however, is not unchangeable. For instance, governments could negotiate a better resource sharing scheme that benefits everyone.
You see, you’re not just a grain of sand; you have influence, and can work the system to your advantage.
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What is Work the System about?
Work the System (2008) starts with a tough question: Which forces rule the world? It proposes that the world is neither reigned by chaos nor a predetermined fate, but by inherently stable systems. The key to getting what you want, therefore, lies in understanding how systems operate, both personal and professional, and fine-tuning them to match your goals and aspirations.
Work the System Review
Work the System (2008) by Sam Carpenter offers a practical roadmap to help readers transform their businesses and personal lives by focusing on systems and processes. Here's why this book is a great choice:
- It provides actionable strategies that enable readers to identify and fix the root causes of problems within their organizations.
- With clear explanations and relatable examples, it empowers readers to regain control of their time and build scalable, efficient systems.
- The book's insightful approach to problem-solving encourages readers to think differently and see opportunities for improvement in every aspect of their lives.
Best quote from Work the System
Most people dont fail by making overt mistakes. They fail, because they dont take action.
—Sam Carpenter
Who should read Work the System?
- Managers, entrepreneurs and CEOs
- Anyone who is striving for a better work–life balance
- Anyone who wants to work more efficiently
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Work the System FAQs
What is the main message of Work the System?
The main message of Work the System is that by implementing systems and processes, you can transform your business and life for the better.
How long does it take to read Work the System?
The reading time for Work the System varies depending on your reading speed. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Work the System a good book? Is it worth reading?
Work the System is definitely worth reading. It offers valuable insights and practical advice for improving your business and creating more efficiency.
Who is the author of Work the System?
The author of Work the System is Sam Carpenter.
What to read after Work the System?
If you're wondering what to read next after Work the System, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- SYSTEMology by David Jenyns
- Zero to One by Peter Thiel with Blake Masters
- 12 Rules For Life by Jordan B. Peterson
- Ultralearning by Scott H. Young
- The Millionaire Fastlane by MJ DeMarco
- The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown
- Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman
- High Output Management by Andrew S. Grove
- The E-Myth Revisited by Michael E. Gerber
- Supercommunicators by Charles Duhigg