Time Off for Good Behavior : How Hardworking Women Can Take a Break and Change Their Lives

Rating:
Summary: An inspirational and thought-provoking read!
Review: Although we've all read a ton of inspirational books, this book finds a way into our hearts and minds like few others have. The reality is that we all want to do the right things in our lives but we sometimes just never find the time. Ms. Quinlan's attitude is full of good/smart heart-felt advice that I know many of us could benefit from.

Definitely worth the read for both women AND men.

Rating:
Summary: It's All About You
Review: I can say no less about this book than it is a gift to anyone who reads it-- Type A burned out female exec, their children, their friends, their mothers, their employers, just about anyone who's been in life's express lane or been along for the ride, and feels like they deserve to exit.

I may be a bit biased given that I am profiled in the book, and am at this very juncture finally getting my time off for good behavior after one failed effort last year.

I can tell power of a book by the number of times I want to grab a pen to underline passages or dog ear the pages. This bit of wisdom from Mary Lou sticks with me today... "We are often our worst bosses, because as much as we expect of the world, it's nothing compared to what we expect from ourselves." So give yourself a break, read this book, and enjoy every moment


Rating:
Summary: Loved the personal stories...
Review: I couldn't put the book down because of how much I related to the stories. Especially reading the early years of the author...the spelling bee's, wanting to the best of the best at everything. As I was reading on the train, I heard myself say out loud, "me too!" I have so many friends who will see themselves in this book. Buying it for them.

Rating:
Summary: Excellent advice - for both men and woman
Review: I have reviewed books for a major business magazine for over a year now, and I think this is one of the best I have seen. I worry, however, that the package makes this appear to be only for women. I think a lot of stressed-out men (particularly attorney friends of mine) will find some real inspiration and an action plan for taking control of what little life they have.

Some may think this is all pie-in-the-sky stuff, but it's achievable with a little pragmatism. Read it and see if you don't agree.


Rating:
Summary: Take the Time to Read Time Off For Good Behavior
Review: I thought this book was great. I loved the different perspectives that were woven into it -- including the psychology behind type A's, the variety of women's issues that were presented relating to work, life stage and lifestyle choices, and the impact this has on corporations.

The actionable exercises at the end of the chapters were a great idea and can help women take the first steps towards assessing their own situations. Most of all, Mary Lou Quinlan acknowledged "taking time off for good behavior" was not easy, but the sharing of her own stories and her heartfelt honesty really makes this book a winner.

Rating:
Summary: EVERYONE SHOULD READ THIS BOOK!
Review: Mary Lou Quinlan has written a book that touches a chord in so many overscheduled lives today --not just those of women. I loved the combination of fact and anecdote that she has woven throughout. And yes, all her characters are women, but I think anyone who finds themself living the kind of life she describes -- mired in appointments, trying to be in three places at once, trying to please three or four different masters, etc -- that's the person who will get a lot out of this book. I find myself thinking of one or another anecdote, as it occurs in my work place, almost every day. And once you start to see the absurdity of what you're doing, you're on the road to recovery. I know I am!

Rating:
Summary: Take Time To Smell The Roses
Review: This is a great read for anyone who might have forgotten there are roses out there - let alone take the time to smell them. Mary Lou Quinlan's writing style is so conversational, it's like you're having a cup of coffee with a friend. She takes you into her own life as well as into the lives of many others, which ultimately becomes an invitation to take a nice, fresh look inward. The book is filled with great anecdotes and experiences, poignant and pointed advice - and is even interactive. It offers you opportunities to explore, to create, and to examine life - your life - so that you can be inspired to live it fully and joyfully.