Marc Prensky has taken this a step further. It's not particularly a step in the right direction and it's probably not and advisable step, but he's written an article called "The Seven Games of Highly Effective People". It looks at how computer games can instill in us effective habits for success. For example:
Be proactive. This is the habit of doing, rather than waiting. You don't beat a game by waiting around for things to happen to you. You have to be there making decisions, testing strategies, defending, attacking, and pulling information from the players and characters you meet. There are many Windows games that can help hone these skills. Whether you're flying a plane in Flight Simulator, running a historical world in Rise of Nations, or building a theme park in RollerCoaster Tycoon, in games, as in life, the world is constantly changing. Those who don't learn to anticipate proactively don't succeed.
As I've mentioned before, games have their own set of acquired behaviours, shooting barrels, etc. and some of them might not quite translate as well to the real world as a Flight Sim's lessons might...
There's always a key (or hidden button, whatever). That door is there for a reason. It's to stop you from progressing. Somewhere nearby is a floating key icon, or a pressure pad, or a guard who needs shooting. As in life, a locked door shouldn't stop you, it should be seen as an opportunity for further advancement.
Killing things increases your charisma. And wisdom, dexterity, intelligence and endurance. If you are having problems at work try going for a walk in the woods killing anything that you come across then going for a nap. It's good experience and you might level up enough to cast that Level 10 Procrastination spell.
Always go for the head shot. It takes less bullets and the animation is usually a lot better.
If at first you don't succeed. IDDQD IDKFA. No problem. (Though it should be noted that not every game has cheat codes. Resign yourself to never finishing them.) In real life there are no cheat codes, but having lots of money is close enough.
Frantically pressing any button can work. OK against a suitably skilled opponent button mashing isn't going to work, but it will get you right to the end of just about any console beat-em up. Some times the appearance of work will fool most people.
Annihilating the opposition is much more satisfying than a diplomatic victory. It's also a lot easier. Winning the race to Alpha Centauri is also good, but can take ages. Better to just research Mathematics early and start buidling catapults.
Sex with hookers in the back of your car restores your health. Actually...
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