Q2 Beyond the Book Club

Beyond the Book Club encourages employees to engage in thoughtful discussions about books, movies, TV shows, and podcasts that foster professional growth and entertainment. In Q2, Cali Franks and Miylie Roan facilitated discussions on "The Comfort Crisis" by Michael Easter and the Netflix movie "Don't Look Up”, through engaging conversations. Keep reading to learn more! 

Cali Franks - Program Attorney

1. What key insights did you gain from leading the discussion on The Comfort Crisis?

Leading the discussion on "The Comfort Crisis" gave me a profound realization: while many people recognize the pitfalls of becoming "too comfortable," the true distinction lies in whether they take action to address it. It was truly inspiring to engage with a group of individuals who are actively striving to step out of their comfort zones and encourage others to do the same. Although the author expresses concern that excessive comfort may lead to a "Wall-E era" of human existence, I would invite him to listen to our thought-provoking conversation, which showcased the authentic and thoughtful efforts we are making to challenge ourselves and those around us. This discussion highlighted the power of a supportive community in fostering personal growth and pushing boundaries.

2. Why did you choose this book?

I selected this book because I realized that I had a strong aversion to discomfort and would often go to great lengths to avoid it, even when it was detrimental to my personal growth. While this tendency primarily manifested in my emotional and mental state, seeing "The Comfort Crisis" led me to believe that the principles discussed could be applied more broadly. I am immensely grateful for having suggested this book, as it has provided valuable insights and strategies for embracing discomfort and expanding my horizons. Reading this book has been a transformative experience, challenging me to confront my fears and step outside my comfort zone in pursuit of personal development and a more fulfilling life.

3. What advice would you give to others interested in reading this book and leading similar discussions?

For those considering reading "The Comfort Crisis," it is essential to approach the book with the understanding that its content can be challenging and uncompromising at times. My advice is to ensure that you have a clear understanding of your perspective and values, as this will enable you to reframe some of the author's ideas and suggestions that may not resonate with your current stage of life. It is crucial to approach the book with an open mind, ready to absorb the insights that align with your personal growth while appreciating but not necessarily adopting every piece of advice presented. When leading discussions on this book, foster an environment that encourages participants to share their unique experiences and perspectives, creating a space for meaningful dialogue and mutual support as individuals navigate the path toward embracing discomfort and unlocking their full potential.

Miylie Roan - HR Generalist

1. What key insights did you gain from leading the discussion on Don’t Look Up?
   Leading the discussion on "Don't Look Up" revealed a surprising range of interpretations from those who joined the discussion. It was interesting to see how differently everyone perceived the movie, highlighting the diverse perspectives within our group.
2. Why did you choose this movie?
   "Don't Look Up" is one of my favorite movies. I've watched it about 5x. It resonated with me because it reminded me of the world's reaction to COVID-19, a connection I felt others might share. During the discussion, I was pleasantly surprised to find that many employees felt the same way which led to an engaging discussion.
3. What advice would you give to others interested in watching this movie and leading similar discussions?
   My advice for anyone interested in watching "Don't Look Up" is to sit down and be fully present and engaged. The movie is filled with comedic lines and important pieces of information that can be easily missed if you're not paying close attention. If you're planning to lead a discussion, don't hesitate to get creative and dive deeper into the topic. Remember, everyone thinks differently, so there isn't just one correct answer. Embrace the diversity of perspectives to enrich the conversation.