So Good They Can't Ignore You

In the past week, I finished reading So Good They Can't Ignore You by Cal Newport.  (Blog:  Study Hacks)  I've read his other books, which I love and want to blog about, but this one book is remarkable and I had to start here.  In the past five days, I've told 15 people about the book, insisting on writing down the title and author for them because I can't imagine their lives without this book!  I ran into a  friend whom I haven't seen for a year, and within two minutes of our saying hello, I was recommending this book as a must read.  Did I find out about the wedding or the new home of my friend?  Sadly, no.  But I made sure that he knew the merits of this absolutely amazing book.  (I'm hoping this story shows just how awesome this book is, rather than pointing towards my sad abilities to re-unite with old friends)

So Good They Can't Ignore You is about learning to work the right way, rather than finding the "right job" or even the "perfect job".  It debunks the theory that you should "follow your passion", thereby creating a job that is blissful and tailor-made.  Instead of constantly seeking for this elusive perfect job, Newport outlines steps to become proficient and well-sought in any field.  It explains the concept "career capital", and how you must build up rare and valuable skills in order to gain control over your work.  The book teaches the importance of enduring strain (something we don't naturally love, but need to experience if we are to gain mastery in any subject/skill).  I could write pages about each of the facets that I loved, thereby writing the book again.  Instead, I'll simply give it this recommendation:  if you have a desire to enjoy your job, and have a purpose in your day-to-day work, you must read this book!

One note:  this book is not written about being a stay-at-home mom.  However, I couldn't help but apply the theories and lessons to my job as a Scholarship Advisory AND my greater work of being a mom.  And in the past week, I've become more excited about my role as a mother, a benefit I didn't foresee.  So, if you are working in a standard "job" or a stay-at-home mom, this book is helpful on both fronts.

Just in case I see you soon, you may want to prepare yourself for this question:  "Have you read So Good They Can't Ignore You?"  Until then, happy reading.