Zen and the Art of Making a Living: A Practical Guide to Creative Career Design

I received this book in the mail the other day after having read the PDF version avidly. It is very large, dense with well researched information, more of a philosophy tract than a self-help disposable so I bought the book because I wanted to be untethered from my laptop. This is easily one of the best career books I’ve read for people like me who aren’t cut from the ‘business’ mold so celebrated these days and needing to make a living despite that reality. In fact, I deliberately shopped for a hardcover because I consider it a classic to keep, reread and reference; imagine my surprise, disappointment and then the ironic humor when I was sent the softcover version for the hardcover price. It says so much (to me) about how business is conducted these days and why so many (like me) are disaffected and looking to leave the field of play. I am one of those people with a foot each in two worlds. I was taught by idealists raised on Kennedy and delivered to a work world of post-Reagan. Enough said. Those of you who get this are chuckling by now, those formulating protests should move on and take no offense. Years ago I saw a coffee mug on a co-workers’ desk, the humor of it speaks to this new way of doing business (at least to my naive eyes): “I lied to get this job. They lied about the job. We’re even!”Seriously though, if you’re a person who still chooses to believe in magic, in purpose, in soul - this is the book to read. It's well worth your money and time; not one of those stomach-turning “what’s your personal brand” books. If however, you see a money-making opportunity in every friendship or acquaintance, this is aerie-faerie nonsense. Follow your bliss is a mantra or soft-headed silliness; accordingly buy this book or use it for a paperweight.I’ll keep this book gratefully. And I’ll assume a honest mistake on the seller’s part. I am not one to blow things out of proportion or see conspiracies in every meeting, I simply enjoyed the joke. Two other books I could recommend are “The Pathfinder” by Nicholas Lore and of course “What Color is Your Parachute” by Richard Bolles.

My daughter loved it-one of her B’day presents. She teaches teenagers and the subject matter in this book perfectly fits into her drive to establish positive mindsets and self-images for these young people.

Zen and the Art of Making a Living is the BEST most comprehensive career development/design book that I've ever read! I've made it a point to read every single interesting source on career development. Boldt does an excellent job providing practical guidance, exercises, and resources while weaving a sense of inspiration and empowerment into a subject area where most writers do not address the importance of a spiritual connection/perspective in your job or career seeking activities and practices. I've gone through several years of being underemployed due in part to the current economic client and a need to reinvent myself professionally. I wish that I had found and purchased this book years ago!Richard Bolles, the author of a seminal career development book "What Color is Your Parachute?," also endorses this book. I've also read parts of Bolle's book and although I did get some benefit from that book, I could never finish it and felt a bit disconnected from the content. When I started reading this book, at the recommendation of a good friend, I knew that I would take the time to finish it. This book is thick and full of a lot of great quotes, ideas, and practices. So, expect to take your time getting through all of the pages. It's definitely worth buying and keeping as a resource throughout your professional career!

I first purchased this book when it was originally published. At the time, the Miami Herald featured a popular Sunday column about the books local citizens were reading and a woman wrote a review that moved me to purchase the book the very next day. Since that time I have probably purchased at least 30 copies and given them as gifts. I always have an extra copy on hand. I am a shameless promoter of this book. I recommend it to anyone trying to uncover their passion, their life's work. When I go on speaking engagements to talk about how to conduct an effective job search I always reference this book as a great tool to have in your arsenal when you want to transition from one career to another. I used it for that very purpose and I only wish I had read it before I went to college and law school. I also recommend it for every high school graduate trying to find a meaningful career. I am quite certain that if I worked for the publisher I could boost sales!

This book is a gold mine. If you care the even slightest about the work you are meant to do, this book belongs in your hands. No matter where you are in the process, the wisdom in these pages will be your faithful companion every step of the way. Worth every penny.

It changed my life, many perspectives and old beliefs were changed for better ones.This book allow me to understand myself a little more and gave me practical tools to develop my own art of making a living

Wow! this is a lot more than what I expected ! This book is FULL of info and history!!!! I'm actually reading it for a 2nd time now - I know there are LOTS of things I missed the first time! There are quotes and images, historical facts and life lessons... I love it!The book was mentioned by Life Coach, Beverley Barnes, as a great step to better understanding our choices in careers and making a living. She was SO right when she recommended this one!Be prepared for a BIG book and BIG info - there 's a lot. Let it sink in too ! I've actually made myself a little notebook as I read with this one!a great buy and great read for anyone with questions about their life path and career.

We purchased this item at a time when I am considering a new career direction. This is not just the same old stuff!The author applies spiritual insights from Zen and Christianity to ask fundamental questions of the reader--who are you, why are you here? This is not just a book to read, it is a companion for a life journey that results in work that fulfills the individual and also blesses the community. I can't recommend it highly enough. There should be 10 stars!

If you’re in the frame of mind for reevaluating your life this is a very fine book. It works up to the idea of change and then gives you some practical advice on how to do so.

Excellent book. Can completely change your mindset with regard to your career and attitude to work. Lots of information. This is not a book to read just once, the format is such that you can dip into it regularly and use as a constant reference source.

The kindle edition is recommended after having the previous edition in paperback. If you have never read this book you are missing out on potentially changing your life. Purchase it and see for yourself

Inspirational, learned and very beautiful! You want change? With this book anything is possible!

have bought this book multiple times, if you are feeling like you want a new direction in life, it is a good reference point.