In "High Fidelity," author Nick Hornby humorously illustrates a poor approach to career planning through the misadventures of his protagonist. The character makes several questionable choices, beginning with a breakup, which leads to a series of misguided decisions that shape his future. Rather than pursuing education and professional development, he opts for a dead-end job in a record shop.

This lifestyle choice becomes a cycle of stagnation, as he remains in the world of record shops, avoiding growth or change. Hornby’s narrative serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of thoughtful planning and the risks of complacency in career and life choices.