Name: The Go-Getter
Rating: 4.2 (9038 reviews)
Author: Peter B. Kyne

"It shall be done." These four words encapsulate the unyielding spirit of dedication and perseverance that can overcome any obstacle.

1. A No-Fail Attitude Can Open Doors

Bill Peck, equipped with determination and charm, shows how adopting a "never take no for an answer" mindset can create opportunities. When he is rejected twice by managers from Rick’s Logging and Lumbering Company, Peck goes straight to the owner, Cappy Ricks. His confidence and persistence impress Cappy, and despite initial doubts from others, Peck is hired.

Peck’s no-nonsense determination shines from the start. Missing an arm and with a limp from wartime injuries, he remains undaunted. Instead, he emphasizes what he can do, not what he lacks – an attitude that instantly sets him apart. This proactive confidence resonates with Cappy, who rewards Peck's directness and self-belief with a position at the company.

The lesson here is clear: presenting yourself with confidence and refusing to quit can dismantle barriers. By creatively solving problems and presenting his case in person, Peck not only secures a job but also foreshadows his ability to handle greater responsibilities.

Examples

Peck creates his own business card before officially being hired.
He personally seeks Cappy out when managers dismiss him.
His upbeat attitude minimizes focus on his physical disabilities.

2. Visualize Success and Act Accordingly

Peck’s vivid confidence stems from his ability to visualize his success before it materializes. By demonstrating his readiness and self-reliance, he not only convinces Cappy but solidifies his own path forward.

Peck's visualization goes beyond wishful thinking; it is matched with action. He doesn’t just hope for an opportunity—he prepares for it. His engraved Rick’s Lumber business card before landing the role proves he already sees himself as part of the company. This mindset translates into his work ethic, making him an undeniable force in the sales team.

This is a call to anyone facing adversity: imagine yourself succeeding, prepare as if you've already won, and act with the surety that your goal is achievable. Peck stands as a living example that this mindset can lead to measurable results.

Examples

Peck's engraved card reflects his belief in obtaining the job.
He demonstrates confidence during his interview with Cappy.
His unyielding optimism remains even when others doubt his capabilities.

3. Perseverance Wins Every Time

Peck’s determination emerges as his most defining feature, particularly when he takes on challenges set by others. Cappy tests this by assigning Peck what appears to be an impossible task: delivering a specific blue vase within a tight timeframe.

What follows is a cascade of obstacles—wrong directions, an unavailable shopkeeper, and lack of funds. Despite this, Peck methodically solves each problem with creativity and grit. His refusal to give up, even as challenges mount, speaks to a larger truth about the power of perseverance.

Success requires grit through difficulties. With every problem Peck faces, his relentless creativity and commitment to fulfilling his promises showcase the essence of true determination.

Examples

Peck pawns his diamond ring for funds when others offer no help.
He chases down the train after retrieving the vase.
He finds a private airplane to catch up to his boss's schedule.

4. Leaders Recognize and Reward Effort

Cappy Ricks knows that building a strong team involves identifying those with resilience and ability. By challenging Peck with the "blue vase" test, Cappy studies his new employee under pressure and rewards his eventual success.

This method of leadership—testing someone’s character and abilities with real-world trials—proves effective. Recognizing Peck’s unrelenting drive and loyalty, Cappy promotes him to a managerial position in Shanghai. Rewarding determination reinforces an enduring truth: effort earns recognition.

Managers, take note. Fostering growth requires challenging your team while also being willing to reward their hard work. Peck's devotion earned him more than just a role; it earned him trust.

Examples

Cappy devises the "blue vase" task to test devotion and persistence.
He promotes Peck to a high-level international position upon his success.
He consistently advocates for Peck's salary raises based on performance.

5. Impossible Goals Are Stepping Stones

The blue vase is far more than a test—it is a symbol of life’s unattainable-seeming goals. Peck’s relentless pursuit of the vase illustrates that with determination, problem-solving, and initiative, even the seemingly impossible can be achieved.

By not giving up, Peck scales barriers and finds creative ways to deliver. From enlisting a taxi driver and pawning valuables to chartering a flight, he refuses to let obstacles define the end of his mission.

We all have "blue vases" in our lives—goals that feel outside our reach. Peck demonstrates that by breaking challenges into actionable steps and maintaining an unwavering focus, no ambition is too grand.

Examples

Peck cracks a series of missteps, tracking down the shopkeeper after hours.
He involves others, persuading friends and strangers alike to aid him.
Even missing his deadline, he doubles his effort to deliver success.

6. Problems Are Just Opportunities in Disguise

Peck approaches problems as puzzles, refusing to let setbacks deter him. Instead of seeing closed doors as defeats, he sees ways to pivot and adjust.

The vase retrieval mission is riddled with obstacles—incorrect directions, absent personnel, and financial limitations. Rather than accept defeat, Peck reaches for alternative solutions. He uses his wit and connections to turn roadblocks into stepping stones.

This perspective can transform your mindset in any sphere. View challenges as opportunities to grow, adapt, and overcome. Peck’s resourcefulness is proof that attitude defines success.

Examples

Finding the shop closed, he tracks down its owner through thorough research.
Short on money, he pawns his personal diamond ring for $2,000.
Losing time, he charters a flight to cover lost ground.

7. Past Experiences Can Shape Future Strength

Peck credits his wartime brigadier, who lived by the motto "it shall be done," for teaching him resilience and optimism. During his recovery from injuries, this mantra became a guiding principle for him to rise above despair.

This influence showcases how impactful mentorship and leadership can be. A strong example set by the brigadier leaves a lifelong imprint on Peck, shaping him into a dedicated, determined individual.

Who inspires you to keep going, especially during hard times? By reflecting on role models who challenge you to do your best, you can find strength even in the toughest situations.

Examples

Peck carries his brigadier's bravery into civilian life.
The motto "it shall be done" becomes his personal mantra.
His story resonates deeply with Cappy, who values that spirit.

8. Effort is Always Rewarded

Whether it's getting a job, impressing a boss, or earning a promotion, Peck consistently demonstrates that hard work and passion yield results over time. His journey reinforces the principle that effort precedes reward.

At Rick's Logging, his early months of diligent sales outperform expectations, earning him not only monetary rewards but greater trust. By proving his abilities every step of the way, success naturally follows.

This serves as encouragement for others: focus on the process, keep putting in the effort, and outcomes will take care of themselves.

Examples

His sales in Utah, Arizona, and Texas exceed processing speeds.
Cappy raises his salary after witnessing his work ethic.
Peck's promotion to Shanghai epitomizes effort leading to growth.

9. Inspire Others Through Leadership

Peck isn’t only a determined worker; he’s also a charismatic leader in the making. Toward the end, we see how the attitude he inherited from his brigadier extends into his ability to energize and impress others.

As he transitions to Shanghai, Peck exemplifies how leaders can motivate through sheer example. His can-do energy, contagious optimism, and unwavering resilience mark him as much a leader of others as he is of himself.

Great leadership isn’t about giving orders—it’s about inspiring devotion and effort through action. Peck embodies this rule through and through.

Examples