Matthew Kelly, Hudson Street Press; $21.95
Is the idea of achieving “a work-life balance” getting in the way of true satisfaction?
Kelly argues that the premise of the term — now ubiquitous in corporate America — is faulty because it assumes that work and life can be compartmentalized. It also implies that there’s some magic ratio of office-to-personal time that can bring about nirvana.
Instead of a superficial work-life balance, Kelly argues that what everyone really wants is a satisfying life experience. And that comes from being the best version of yourself possible, whether it’s by improving family relationships or completing a rewarding project at the office. In that light, Kelly notes that working an 80-hour week can be just as gratifying as dinner with a group of friends.
The book includes several lists of questions to help readers determine how much satisfaction they’re getting out of life. To increase that quotient, Kelly recommends a strategic approach. That means committing to specific actions that can help readers move toward their life goals — both personal and professional. Candice Choi, The Associated Press
