Wednesday, December 8, 2010

What RamP's Reading: Dec'10

As I slowly rebuild my life, I've chosen books that I need the most at this time!


The First 90 DaysTransitions are a critical time for leaders. In fact, most agree that moving into a new role is the biggest challenge a manager will face. While transitions offer a chance to start fresh and make needed changes in an organization, they also place leaders in a position of acute vulnerability. Missteps made during the crucial first three months in a new role can jeopardize or even derail your success. In The First 90 Days, Michael D. Watkins offers proven strategies for conquering the challenges of transitions—no matter where you are in your career.


Strength in the Storm: Stress and anxiety affect many of us as we struggle with work pressures, money worries, strained relationships, and the nagging sense that life may be running out of our control. But a truly calm mind can weather any storm. Eknath Easwaran, a respected teacher of meditation, offers a wealth of insights, real-life stories and practical suggestions to help us try something more successful next time we’re facing our stressors. He explains how to use a mantram (or mantra) to quiet the mind. He describes how to slow down and stay in the present, improve creativity and concentration, shed anxieties and resentments, strengthen our relationships, and stay kind and strong when faced with conflicts, supporting those around us.


What About the BIG stuff?Richard Carlson's bestselling Don't Sweat series has shown countless families, lovers, and workers how not to sweat the small stuff. Now, in his soothing and wise trademark tone, Carlson takes a different approach and discusses life's bigger issues, including dealing with the death of a loved one; how divorce affects your family and friends; confronting illness, whether in yourself or others; and managing difficult financial situations. In chapters such as 'Bouncing Back from Divorce,' 'Finding Life After Death,' and 'Feel Free to Grieve,' Carlson offers healing insight and heartfelt advice on how to find inner peace and strength to deal with the big stuff.