48 Days to the Work You Love

I heard a very short snippet of an interview with Dan Miller on the radio last month, and it was enough for me to search out his book 48 Days to the Work You Love. I felt I needed a new perspective on work, and some guiding questions to help me evaluate my professional life.

In 48 Days to the Work You Love, Miller provides just that. He discusses the definition of work - and our culture's perspective of work. I especially enjoyed his discussion of the differences between vocation, career, and job.

After the more philosophical, yet very readable, discussions of work, Miller moves into very practical applications of finding work. He gives tips and samples of resumes, introduction letters, follow up letters. He talks about the interview and what an applicant can and should do to prepare for it. He takes us through a step-by-step job search process not focused on the classifieds (in print or online) and destroys myths we believe about the job search process.

He also has a couple of chapters on starting your own business - what to think about, answering common questions, and giving words of warning about scams. He encourages us to stretch our thinking - and to do something with our ideas.

"Most great business ideas are not new and revolutionary. They are simple but done by someone who just did something! A good idea will not put money in anybody's pocket, but combined with a plan of action that good idea can give you time control and unlimited income."

Dave Ramsey (of Total Money Makeover fame) sets the tone for Miller's book in his forward. He says, "The difference between successful and the troubled is not error-free living; it is that by discovering and implementing a life calling, the successful stand on their pile of trash while the troubled sit under theirs. ... This is a book about implementation, so do it!"

I would recommend this book to anyone feeling discouraged, disappointed, or is searching for a job. Putting into practice a few of the things in this book will help you climb to the top of your trash pile, instead of sitting under it.