Go For It! Finding Your Own Frontier

The very word ‘frontier’ is a uniquely American concept. In every other Indo-European language, the word ‘frontier’ means a boundary or a limit. In America, the word ‘frontier’ came to mean the very opposite—a boundless realm of exciting possibilities. The drive to the frontier is a part of the American character, of what it means to be an American." —from the Preface Go For It! reveals the "frontier strategy"—habits of the mind that contribute to our strength and success, both as individuals and as a nation. Go For It! Shows how to find your own frontier. It could be a geographic place, in a hometown or a new town. But a frontier is a state of mind found at work or at home. It could be homebodies at their computers "homesteading the electronic frontier." We see science as the " endless frontier" and call retirement the "next frontier." Ultimately, the frontier is a choice, not just a place. It could be anywhere that unique qualities enable someone to make a contribution not made before. Author Judith Kleinfled, Ed.D. professor of psychology at the University of Alaska, liberally laces her book with inspiring stories of those who found their frontier, explaining why they develop greater personal confidence, more independence and a stronger sense of self. On frontiers, people • enjoy easier entry, less competition, and better odds of success; • stretch themselves and expand their skills; • take on tough tasks and become more resourceful and inventive; • get out of their ruts and escape the expectations of others; and • experience new places and people who inspire them, causing their creativity to soar. We Americans rejoice when individuals overcome obstacles and succeed against formidable odds. That is the frontier spirit. This self-help book, the quintessential American genre, serves as a guide to finding authentic happiness while leading satisfying and successful lives.