Recommended to me by a friend, I approached this book with some trepidation, as I don't really go for "do it this way" kind of books, especially ones that seem to be "name it and claim it," as this one did. As I read, I found that I already live my life much in the way he describes, without the specific labels that he designates. It was mostly common sense, really, but some of the things he said were encouraging and caused me to think a little differently. It didn't change my life or anything, but it did serve as an affirmation to keep going the way that I am.

There was a little bit of the Power of Who in my decision to read this book: I had recently read one of the author's other works, "2 Chairs," and it made me want to see what else he had available. This turned out to be a good pick as well!

In the opening pages, he sets the tone by helping the reader to throw out the old notion of "it's not what you know; it's who you know," and remembering instead to think about those who have helped us get where we are, looking to Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, which says, "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up."

In life, and especially our business lives, our mindset should always be to seek what we can do to serve others in the roles we have been given. That's the source of satisfaction and lasting impact we gain from our careers. He says, "Some people enter our lives and leave almost instantly. Others stay and forge such an impression on our heart and soul that we are forever changed." We need to seek to be those people for others!

This book teaches the principal that "whatever you do has a transforming effect on you. Living the life you love has the almost magical quality of keeping you young, vibrant, and healthy."

As I thought back over my career while I was reading, I saw myself in many of the scenarios described and I was grateful for those who have poured into me and given me opportunities to be successful. I want to do that for others, and this book also helps readers be mindful of the importance of mentoring. I loved this quote about learning through our challenges by surrounding ourselves with the right people: "Sometimes when life presents circumstances we deem unacceptable, we panic and stop reasoning effectively. This can cause a sort of 'temporary blindness' that can keep us from seeing a solution that may be right in front of us." I've had mentors that helped me recalibrate my perspective, preparing me to help others in the same way.

I love the notion that even when things don't work out the way we would like, we need to realize that "a detour is not permanent. It's not the road to your destiny. It's a necessary but temporary side route. Perhaps there are some things you need to acquire or learn... the road to success is always under construction." That is excellent advice for someone experiencing adversity to keep moving forward positively, seeking to learn something beneficial from each challenge.

I only wish I had found this book earlier in my career. Not only is it complete with practical applications, but it's written in a tone and spirit of helpfulness and wisdom that is rare in books from this genre. This is a 5-star gem!

This book was very timely for me as I'm beginning my career and it really helped me re-frame my ideas about how I approach my job search. I'm very thankful to have read it when I did, and it's something I plan on revisiting in the future.

Cheesy tone and anecdotes that you just have to tolerate -- but really useful information.