Final Fantasy Life Lessons

With all the current buzz about gamification, it seems like a good time to reflect upon the important life lessons that can be learned from playing a good game.  Here are some of the things I have learned from playing Final Fantasy XIII.

Welcome Every Mission

Just like the game, life is filled with small challenges. If you avoid these encounters, you won’t gain the experience that you need for the big challenges.  Throw yourself enthusiastically into every opportunity and you will learn the lessons and acquire the experience you will need for the big battles that are coming.

Always Give 100%

You may be able to win a battle without trying very hard. But you will level up faster and higher if you approach every challenge with skill and enthusiasm.  Dealing with everyday challenges skillfully prepares you to unlock the epic accomplishments.

Try Again

The game wouldn’t be very much fun if you could win every battle the first time.  Neither would life.  When things go wrong, adjust your strategy and try again. And keep trying until you figure it out.

Embrace Diversity

When things get rough, you are going to need a team with the skills and flexibility to adapt to the situation. Make sure you choose people with different backgrounds, experience and skills that can complement your own.

Level Up Everyone

Winning the epic battles will require every member of your team to be at their best.  Make sure that everyone has the training, experience and skills they need to make their contribution.

If You Can’t Win, Expand Your Abilities

In some cases, you and your team will not be able to defeat your enemy with the equipment and abilities that you have accumulated.  When this happens, you need to retrace your steps and build more abilities and upgrade your equipment by taking on simpler missions.   When you have leveled up sufficiently, it’s time to try the epic battle again.  In real life, when you find yourself in over your head, figure out what you need to know then learn it.

What have you learned from playing games?  How has it impacted your life?