Books

Books you’ll find in your local library

Making a major change in your life is not easy. Here are some books we found useful in making our decisions to leave secure pensionable jobs!

We know our local library stocks these books hopefully your library does too though we can’t guarantee it!

Personal development

Feel the fear and do it anyway, Susan Jeffers

Jeffers writes in a very simple way and whilst the very American approach can grate with us Irish, her book is a must for any one thinking about changing careers. The basic premise is that’s every one is scared and the difference between achievers and non achievers is the achievers are still scared but just get on with it.

The 7 habits of highly effective managers, Stephen Covey

Another American book but practical aimed at helping you makes the most of your personal and working life with a balance between all aspects.

The 7 habits of highly effective teenagers Sean Covey

An American book by the son of the famous author this one is aimed at teenagers. (See highly effective managers)

The Power of Negative Thinking, Tony Humphreys

Written by an Irish Clinical Psychologist this book’s basic premise is that if we can understand why we are thinking in a negative way we can have a happier more fulfilled life.

Help Yourself, Dave Pelzer

Written by an American who was the victim of one of the worse recorded child abuse cases in the state of California.  This book consists of the lessons he learnt growing up which enabled him to survive horrific abuse. Whilst there are no graphic descriptions of this abuse it may upset more sensitive readers. It is however a very inspiring book which demonstrates the power of human spirit.

The world of work

Beyond Certainty, Charles Handy

Handy a very well known and entertaining speaker and writer talks about the changing world of organisations. First published in 1995 many of his predictions about the changing world of work are coming to pass. Handy is English and has lived in Ireland. His occasional talks here are well worth going to.

The work we were born to do. Nick Williams

Written by an English man this is about finding and enjoying the work we were meant to do. Whilst some what repetitive it does make some good points.

Better Change, Best Practices for transforming your organization. The Price Waterhouse Change Integration Team

This is an easy to read very practical guide for managers who need to introduce change in their organisations. It covers all the angles on effective change.  It’s not generally available but your local Price Waterhouse office may have a copy  

Entrepreneurs

Irish cases in Entrepreneurship edited by Thomas m Cooney

This is a series of essays on successful Irish start ups such Abrakebraba. Sponsored by Enterprise Ireland

Starting a Business in Ireland: 5th Edition A Comprehensive Guide and Directory, Brian O'Kane

An invaluable practical resource for any one thinking of setting up their own business in Ireland. There’s also a workbook, but make sure you buy the latest edition as there may be changes e.g. tax bands etc.

Business Start Up’s

The County Enterprise Boards are a very useful resource for any one thinking of setting up a business. For example Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Enterprise Board produce a series of free excellent practical guides on

• Business Start up’s
• Managing Business Finances
• Business Marketing

 

Miscellaneous

Downshifting. The Guide to Happier Simpler living Polly Ghazi & Judy Jones

Written by two English women this provides practical advice on changing careers and living on a lower income. A must if you’re leaving a highly paid job to become a struggling musician or artist.

Status Anxiety, Alain De Botton

An international bestseller this is an interesting take on how we’ve become so consumed by material possessions. Provides some useful insights on why we need to constantly “keep up with the Joneses”

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