When Work Doesn't Work Anymore

Rating:
Summary: Life Changing
Review: I knew something was wrong - for years I "played the game" in Corporate America, but it was no longer enough. I read McKenna's book one Friday night...there it was in black & white...the validation of all I was feeling. That weekend I mourned the loss of a life that had become all-consuming, and began the journey to build a better life. It took 4 months and much soul searching, but I resigned from my high powered, Fortune 500 company position, and am now well on my way to the life I always dreamed about. I've sent copies of the book to all my stressed-out, "there must be a better way" girlfriends in Corporate America. It's a must read if you've ever wondered "at what price, success?"

Rating:
Summary: You Do Have a Choice
Review: Somewhere along the line I forgot I had a choice. I don't know how it happened, but it did. Maybe it was the money, or the benefits, or simply the fact that I've achieved five-weeks vacation and a pension. Perhaps it was that I have a loving husband who enjoyed listening to my Dilbertish stories each evening. Well, enough is enough. I'm tired of working in a cartoon strip. At the end of the day I want to feel more than just drained. If my husband needs Dilbert, I'll suggest he read the comics.

Rating:
Summary: perfect timing
Review: This book came along at the perfect instant in my life...having been stuck and miserable in an abusive health care job situation for months and months, I couldn't figure out why, since I am financially independent, I was still torturing myself going to work in the OR (the ultimate abusive job) This book helped to crystallize my scattered thinking, and I was able to look at the job situation as an abusive relationship and finally get out. Last night I saw a number of my former colleagues atr a baby shower and could honestly say I don't miss it at all and that quitting was the best thing I have ever done for myself. I will also admit to my good fortune in being financially independent and to having had the good sense to begin my second career as a massotherapist several years ago. The identity issues and the "What will I do every day" issues are key. I am passing this book on and on and on to anyone who will read it. The workplace will have to change if enough of us blow it off.

Rating:
Summary: For successful women who are ready for a change of life
Review: This is a wonderful review of women in the workplace, the frustrations we face, and the history which has led us here. It's a source of comfort as women discover the underlying reasons of their struggle in managing home, self, and work. The only disappointment in this book is, as there is no easy answer and as we are all very different, the solution to this turmoil is vague. That said, When Work Doesn't Work is a great way to get you thinking about how to change your situation and hopefully enjoy (or atleast understand) you relationship with work.

Rating:
Summary: A Very Real Look at Our Values and Why We Work
Review: This is the first book I have read of its kind. Not only does the author courageously explore the values and social expectations that entrap so many people in unhappy work situations -- but she also shares her experiences of re-evaluating her priorities. Anyone who has done the same (male or female) will find comfort and understanding in this book. It's scope is for women, but it does NOT alienate men. In fact, the last chapter is about how men experience these expectations and social pressures to "be someone" to an even greater degree than women. It's bound to touch a nerve in many folks who pick it up and are still deeply invested in social status -- and I'm not surprised it scared people. She was boldly honest about the judgements all too many people receive when they get off the "fast track". I agree with her completely -- our society needs to value people (their deeds) more , and status (i.e. job title) less. A bold, courageous account!