In the latest book from the author of such notable books as Who Moved My Cheese and The Present, Peaks and Valleys
Johnson provides tips on how to get out of your valley sooner and techniques to stay on your peaks longer. The book is only around one hundred pages of rather large type and I was able to read it in an afternoon. There are no really deep secrets here, just common sense approaches to managing life and work. Unfortunately, we often forget the common sense things that would help sustain us.
A section of the book describes a situation where the young man was forced to look for other work. I faced a similar situation ten years ago as my company was being purchased by another company. At first things looked like they would not really change for me, but as the months wore on, it became apparent to me that I would not be retained. Being part of management in the company being bought is not a very secure place to be.
Seeing the handwriting on the wall, I actually had another job lined up (those were better economic times) before being severed. I was actually able to delay starting the second job and spend more time with my daughter as she started kindergarten that fall. After I left my position and spent more time at home, I realized how much stress I was under. The job was never boring, but I never realized how much it affected my life. The forced career change was a very good thing for me and I may need another one soon.
I realized that I probably would have never left the position unless pushed. I was pushed…thankfully. I still keep in touch with some folks at the old company. They have had numerous personnel changes over the years and recently got in some hot water with a regulatory agency. I would have been in the middle of that mess and can smile that I am not. Rumour is that they are being bought out by another company.
Peaks and Valleys is worth reading, but if you can get it at a library, I would suggest saving the money or pick up a used copy at Amazon. My copy will be listed there this evening.
