As a graduate student in an American Studies program, each semester I am exposed to a panoply of incredible and mind-expanding books. On the syllabus for one of my courses is a book called The Adventures of Johnny Bunko: The Last Career Guide You’ll Ever Need which addresses the question, “What does one do when dissatisfied with the life and career one worked so hard to earn?” Author Daniel Pink tells the story of a young fellow named Johnny Bunko who did everything right– he went to college, majored in accounting, landed a great job in his field but wasn’t fulfilled. Throughout the book Johnny Bunko is given career advice which sets him on the path towards a life of rewarding work.
Early on there is a scene where Johnny Bunko’s father tells him to get a degree in accounting because it is the practical thing to do even though that isn’t his true passion. He later admits that if it were up to him he would work for a video game company, a branding firm, or a museum. Since the field of public history made the list of his in-a-perfect-world-pipe-dream careers, I think the lessons set forth in this book are germane to the next generation of professionals who frequent this site. Oh, and did I mention its a graphic novel? (That’s right, I read graphic novels in graduate school.)
The lessons are as follows:
1. There is no plan: From middle school on we are pressured to begin planning; Study. Get good grades. Get into college. Intern at the right places. Meet the right people. Get a good job. Climb the ladder. Here, Pink is telling us to let go of the idea of having life all laid out on a giant to-do list. Things change, people change, and although it is smart to have a rough idea of where you want to end up, it is also important to remain flexible and open to unforeseen opportunities.
2. Think strengths not weaknesses: Determine what your particular talents are and bring them to the table rather than wasting energy dwelling on what you aren’t good at.
3. It’s not about you: Get involved in projects that use your skills to add value to more than just you own life
4. Persistence trumps talent: Don’t give up! The more times you try something the more likely you are to succeed.
5. Make excellent mistakes: Think big, take calculated risks, and learn from your mistakes.
6. Leave an imprint: Make a valuable contribution to the world and make sure it mattered that you were alive.
Daniel Pink’s six simple strategies outlined in The Adventures of Johnny Bunko are good conversation starters for young folks looking to find a career or even for those who want to find a new career. The light and fun graphic novel format makes it a great high school or college graduation gift.