I read 『絶望しきって死ぬために、今を熱狂して生きろ』見城徹（著） (To Live Passionately Now in Order to Die in Complete Despair by Kenjo Toru), so I’ll share the insights I gained from the book.

Background: Sequel to 『憂鬱でなければ、仕事じゃない』(If It's Not Depressing, It's Not Work)

I had already read the previous work 『憂鬱でなければ、仕事じゃない』 (If It’s Not Depressing, It’s Not Work), and since the sequel was available on Kindle Unlimited, I read this book.

Below are quotes and notes from the sections that left an impression on me.

Chapter 2: Fundamentals of Human Relations

Giving appropriate comments at appropriate timing is a great chance to build a good relationship with that person. It's most effective to say something close to their own self-evaluation. They will feel you are a good understanding person. It's unpleasant to be flattered when you think you've failed, and it's frustrating to be criticized when you think you did well. You shouldn't be brutally honest and say everything. It may sound a bit calculating, but giving comments is very effective strategic communication.

? Giving comments is strategic communication

However, I don't leave everything to my secretary. This is not limited to secretaries. As your position rises in society, you will have subordinates and assistants who support you. You should draw a clear line between what you delegate to them and what you don't. For example, I don't let my secretary handle important business dinner arrangements. I think it's impossible to provide heartfelt hospitality that way.

? Handle important business dinner arrangements yourself.

Chapter 5: Never Stop Growing

However, what I can say with certainty is that no one can avoid the gambling elements in life. Some people may say they've never done pachinko or horse racing. But if you think about it, even getting a job or getting married contains some gambling elements. Management work also requires intuition for taking risks. A president who just works seriously cannot manage successfully. You cannot avoid something just because you're not good at it.

? Management work also requires intuition for taking risks. A manager who just works seriously cannot manage successfully.

Chapter 6: Becoming Someone Different from Everyone Else

Back then, when I was interviewed as a young entrepreneur and asked "Aren't you anxious?", I always answered, "I'm working so hard that if this doesn't work out, there's nothing I can do about it." When you make overwhelming efforts, concentrate, and give everything you have, and it still doesn't work, your hopes are indeed crushed. But then you have no regrets, and you can feel proud of yourself with a refreshing feeling at the end.

? Am I doing it without regrets?

That’s all from the Gemba, where I want to keep doing things without regrets.