“From Halfhearted to Humble: A Lesson in Effort”
In grade 12, Mrs. Charlton, my Home Economics teacher, assigned a project on the first day of class. Our task? Develop a mock business plan, due on the last day of classes, accounting for 30% of our final grade. Initially, I considered it straightforward—a simple way to pass the course. I devoted minimal effort to the remaining 70% of my grade, breezing through cooking, family planning, and budgeting. The result? A lackluster 60% grade. But no worries! It sufficed to maintain my 51% grade point average.
The Not-So-Funny Joke
My classmates diligently prepared for the final project, armed with various binders, booklets, and duo tangs adorned with cover pages. I, however, took a different approach. When asked what I had prepared, I pulled out a piece of lined paper from my binder and scrawled the heading: “Can-Am Sporting Goods Store.” In my vision, this store would offer unique sporting goods sourced exclusively from the US, to be sold across the Canadian border. I also jotted down some basic, additional notes about the store’s description, employee count, and location.
Looks Who’s Laughing Now!
My classmates erupted in laughter at my ignorant business plan. As the class clown, I reveled in their amusement. Mrs. Charlton, however, didn’t share their sentiment. When I handed her my flimsy paper, she retorted, “Is this some kind of joke?” Undeterred, I quipped, “No! This business idea is rock solid! You should invest!” Hoping for a passing grade, I awaited her response. Her face turned crimson, and she wasn’t amused. My joke landed like the Hindenburg.
Humble Pie
In a disgruntled tone, she chastised me: “You haven’t read the project description. Your lack of effort insults everyone who worked hard on this project.” She held up my single sheet of paper—the vessel for my million-dollar sporting goods store idea. “Mr. Moore,” she declared, “you won’t graduate this year! Now how’s that for funny Al!? Is that a good one?” The class collectively gasped, as if witnessing a knockout blow in a boxing match.
One Small Hole can Sink a Ship!
Ultimately, I had to return the following year to complete the course (more on that in Part II). The lesson? Give 100% effort to every task. Whether in education, work, sports, or networking, seemingly insignificant lapses can ripple through our entire system and impact our attitude; and future prospects. Underestimating Home Ec and Mrs. Charlton came at a heavy and embarrassing cost!