Life Matters : Creating a Dynamic Balance of Work, Family, Time & Money

Rating:
Summary: Investment stragegies that go beyond money
Review: This book is one of many that build off Stephen Covey's "The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People," and is a more in-depth discussion of prioritizing (Living in Quadrant II for those who speak Covey). This book is divided into four sections that reflect the four biggest concerns Americans face--the workplace, the family, time, and money. The basic message of the book is that one must think in terms of "investing," whether it be money, time, or effort. It is important to examine what one invests in so that maximum returns can be paid on that investment. As an example, investing money in a car yeilds a much lower return (a negative return) than investing in a mutual fund. Investing time in televison watching yields a much lower return than helping your child with his homework. Investing in effort in a long-term project that is still months away yields a much higher return than filling out some pretty-unnecessary paperwork. Other commentators are correct when they say that the examples of theory-in-action can be fairly unrealistic (even though they really happened!), but they illustrate the authors' points well. I would first recommend the Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. If you find that helpful (and I imagine you will), this book is an excellent follow-up to it.

Rating:
Summary: Concentrated stuff
Review: When you go to the hardware store to buy herbicide, the leading brand offers several containers of the same size with different label colors. The prices are dramatically different; you can buy a pint for prices ranging from $8 to $50. Looking a little closer, you discover that the higher the price, the greater the concentration.
Life Matters is highly concentrated. It doesn't cost more money, but invites slow, thoughtful consideration. When I first considered the Merrills' 3 "key do's in life that make such an enormous difference," my eyes glazed at the words. I thought they were cheesy jargon. However, as I continued reading how these "key do's" apply to work, family, time and money, I had picture after picture develop in my mind of realistic ways to share greater happiness with my family, neighbors and work associates. Building on well-known habits of relationship building, time management and personal mastery, Life Matters goes deep into how to achieve success that lasts across decades and generations.
In one volume, the Merrills have provided a gateway for 21st century people to apply the wisdom of the millennia. You will gain profound benefit by accepting their invitation and giving Life Matters thoughtful consideration.