20 best books on work life balance – 2023 reading list & recommendations

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The 4-Hour Workweek

by Timothy Ferriss

The 4-Hour Workweek by Timothy Ferriss is not your average work-life balance book. It’s not just another guide telling you to work less and live more. No, this book is a game-changer. It’s a revolutionary approach to escaping the 9-5 grind and creating a life of freedom and fulfillment.

Ferriss shares his personal journey from being overworked and burnt out to becoming a lifestyle entrepreneur who works only four hours a week. Yes, you read that right. Four hours a week. But don’t be fooled, this isn’t about being lazy or slacking off. It’s about redefining productivity and focusing on what truly matters.

Through a combination of practical tips, unconventional strategies, and thought-provoking insights, Ferriss challenges the traditional notions of work and success. He introduces concepts like “mini-retirements,” where you take extended breaks throughout your life instead of waiting until retirement to enjoy your freedom. He teaches you how to automate and outsource tasks to free up your time for what you love. And he shows you how to prioritize and eliminate unnecessary distractions to achieve maximum efficiency.

But perhaps the most important aspect of The 4-Hour Workweek is its emphasis on designing your ideal lifestyle. Ferriss encourages you to dream big and think outside the box. He provides step-by-step instructions on how to start your own business, generate passive income, and live life on your own terms.

So, if you’re tired of the daily grind and yearning for a life of freedom and fulfillment, The 4-Hour Workweek is the book for you. It’s not just another work-life balance book; it’s a blueprint for creating a life that’s truly worth living.

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Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead

by Sheryl Sandberg

Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg is a game-changing book on work-life balance that challenges women to break free from societal limitations and reach for their highest aspirations.

In this empowering and thought-provoking book about work-life balance, Sandberg shares her own experiences as a successful businesswoman and offers practical advice for women who want to excel in their careers while maintaining a fulfilling personal life.

Through personal anecdotes and inspiring stories, Sandberg explores the obstacles that women face in the workplace, from gender bias to self-doubt, and provides strategies for overcoming these challenges.

She encourages women to “lean in” to their ambitions, to take risks, and to embrace leadership roles. Sandberg challenges traditional notions of work-life balance, arguing that it is possible to have a successful career and a fulfilling personal life.

With its powerful message and actionable advice, Lean In is a must-read for anyone who wants to achieve work-life balance and reach their full potential.

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Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World

by Cal Newport

Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World by Cal Newport is not just your average book on work-life balance. It’s a game-changer.

In this modern world, where distractions are everywhere and productivity seems to be a distant dream, Newport provides a refreshing perspective on how to achieve true focus and excellence in our professional lives.

But don’t be fooled, this is not just another self-help book about work-life balance. Newport goes beyond the usual advice of time management and multitasking, diving deep into the concept of ‘deep work’ – the ability to concentrate without distraction on a cognitively demanding task.

By sharing compelling stories and research from various fields, Newport unveils the power of deep work and its transformative effects on our productivity, creativity, and overall satisfaction in life.

Whether you’re a student, a professional, or an entrepreneur, this work-life balance book will provide you with practical strategies and actionable steps to cultivate deep work in your daily routine. Newport emphasizes the importance of creating boundaries, eliminating distractions, and structuring our time in a way that allows us to focus on what truly matters.

So, if you’re tired of feeling overwhelmed by the constant demands of the digital age and yearn for a more fulfilling and productive work-life balance, Deep Work is the book for you. It’s time to dive deep and unlock your full potential.

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Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less

by Greg McKeown

Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown is a game-changing book about finding true fulfillment and success in our fast-paced world. In this work-life balance book, McKeown challenges the conventional wisdom that we can have it all, do it all, and be it all.

Instead, he introduces the concept of essentialism, which is all about focusing on what truly matters and eliminating the non-essential. It’s like decluttering your life and getting rid of all the distractions that prevent you from living a meaningful and purposeful life.

McKeown shares practical strategies and insightful stories to help readers understand the power of saying no, setting boundaries, and making deliberate choices that align with their values and goals. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing and investing our time, energy, and resources into activities that bring us joy, fulfillment, and make a real impact.

This book on work-life balance is a wake-up call for those who are constantly busy but never truly satisfied. It’s a reminder that we have the power to create a life of our own design, one that is centered around what truly matters to us.

Whether you’re a career-driven professional, a busy parent, or simply someone who wants to live a more intentional life, Essentialism is a must-read. It will inspire you to rethink your priorities, make tough decisions, and pursue a life of purpose and meaning.

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The Power of Full Engagement: Managing Energy, Not Time, Is the Key to High Performance and Personal Renewal

by Jim Loehr and Tony Schwartz

The Power of Full Engagement is a groundbreaking book on work-life balance that challenges the traditional notion of time management. Written by Jim Loehr and Tony Schwartz, this transformative work-life balance book argues that managing energy, not time, is the key to achieving high performance and personal renewal.

Loehr and Schwartz draw on their extensive experience working with top athletes and executives to provide practical strategies for managing energy in all areas of life. They introduce the concept of “energy management” and emphasize the importance of balancing physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual energy to achieve optimal performance.

Unlike other books about work-life balance, The Power of Full Engagement goes beyond traditional time management techniques and delves into the science of human energy. The authors explain how our energy levels fluctuate throughout the day and how to harness and replenish our energy to sustain high performance over the long term.

With engaging stories and real-life examples, Loehr and Schwartz offer actionable advice on how to prioritize activities, establish effective rituals, and create sustainable work-life balance. They provide practical tools and exercises to help readers identify their energy drains and leverage their energy sources to achieve greater success and fulfillment.

Whether you’re a busy professional, an athlete, or someone seeking a more balanced and fulfilling life, The Power of Full Engagement is a must-read work-life balance book. It will empower you to optimize your energy levels, enhance your performance, and live a more meaningful and energized life.

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The Happiness Advantage: The Seven Principles of Positive Psychology That Fuel Success and Performance at Work

by Shawn Achor

The Happiness Advantage: The Seven Principles of Positive Psychology That Fuel Success and Performance at Work by Shawn Achor is a groundbreaking book on achieving work-life balance and finding happiness in our professional lives.

Achor, a renowned positive psychologist, explores the connection between happiness and success, debunking the myth that we need to work hard to be happy. Instead, he argues that happiness actually leads to greater success and productivity.

Through rigorous research and compelling anecdotes, Achor presents seven principles that can help individuals unlock their full potential and thrive in the workplace. These principles include cultivating a positive mindset, leveraging the power of gratitude, building meaningful relationships, and embracing the power of authenticity.

What sets this book apart is Achor’s ability to provide practical strategies and actionable advice. He offers tangible steps to improve our happiness and well-being, such as incorporating daily exercises of gratitude and finding ways to bring more joy into our work.

By implementing these principles, readers can enhance their work-life balance, boost their productivity, and ultimately experience greater happiness and success in their careers. The Happiness Advantage is a must-read for anyone seeking to create a fulfilling and balanced professional life.

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Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us

by Daniel H. Pink

Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel H. Pink is a game-changing book on achieving work-life balance.

Are you tired of feeling burnt out, stressed, and unfulfilled in your career? This transformative read will challenge everything you thought you knew about motivation and success in the workplace.

With his signature blend of research, anecdotes, and practical advice, Pink uncovers the secrets to finding true satisfaction and balance in our professional lives. He argues that conventional wisdom on motivation, which revolves around external rewards and punishments, is outdated and ineffective.

Instead, Pink reveals the power of intrinsic motivation—the drive that comes from within ourselves. By focusing on autonomy, mastery, and purpose, we can tap into our natural desire to excel and find joy in our work.

Reading this book is like uncovering a hidden treasure chest of insights and strategies for creating a fulfilling career and a fulfilling life. Pink’s engaging storytelling and thought-provoking ideas will leave you feeling inspired and motivated to make positive changes.

If you’re ready to break free from the cycle of dissatisfaction and find your own path to success, this is the book for you. Dive into Drive and discover the surprising truth about what truly motivates us.

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The ONE Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results

by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan

The ONE Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results is a groundbreaking book on achieving work-life balance that will revolutionize the way you approach your goals. Written by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan, this book dives deep into the concept of focusing on one thing at a time to achieve extraordinary results in all areas of your life.

Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed with work, struggling to find time for personal pursuits, or simply want to improve your productivity, this book about work-life balance is a must-read. Keller and Papasan emphasize the importance of prioritizing and narrowing down your focus to the most important task that will have the biggest impact on your goals.

With practical tips, inspiring stories, and actionable advice, The ONE Thing offers a refreshing take on achieving work-life balance. It challenges the conventional wisdom of multitasking and encourages readers to adopt a more intentional and strategic approach to their daily lives.

If you’ve ever felt pulled in a million different directions or wondered how to find harmony between your work and personal life, this work-life balance book is your answer. It will empower you to identify your priorities, eliminate distractions, and ultimately achieve extraordinary results in every aspect of your life.

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Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead

by Brené Brown

Daring Greatly is an incredibly powerful and thought-provoking book on the topic of work-life balance. Brené Brown, a renowned researcher, dives deep into the concept of vulnerability and its impact on how we live, love, parent, and lead.

In this book, Brown challenges the traditional notion of work-life balance and suggests that true fulfillment and happiness can only be achieved when we embrace vulnerability. She argues that vulnerability is not a weakness, but rather a strength that allows us to connect deeply with others and live a more authentic life.

Through her extensive research and personal anecdotes, Brown explores the ways in which vulnerability can transform our relationships, both personal and professional. She provides practical strategies for cultivating vulnerability in our daily lives and offers valuable insights for finding balance amidst the demands of work and personal responsibilities.

With its compelling storytelling and thought-provoking ideas, Daring Greatly is a must-read for anyone seeking a fresh perspective on work-life balance. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent juggling multiple roles, or a leader looking to create a more inclusive and compassionate work environment, this book will inspire and empower you to embrace vulnerability and live a more fulfilling life.

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The 5 AM Club: Own Your Morning. Elevate Your Life.

by Robin Sharma

The 5 AM Club: Own Your Morning. Elevate Your Life. by Robin Sharma is a book about achieving work life balance and finding success through a powerful morning routine. This captivating and inspiring book takes readers on a journey to discover the immense potential that lies within the early hours of the day.

With a unique blend of storytelling and practical advice, Sharma introduces readers to the concept of joining the exclusive 5 AM Club, a group of individuals who have harnessed the power of the early morning to transform their lives. Through the experiences of the characters in the book, readers learn valuable lessons about productivity, mindfulness, and self-mastery.

The 5 AM Club provides a step-by-step guide to creating a morning routine that sets the foundation for a successful and fulfilling day. The book emphasizes the importance of dedicating time to personal growth, physical exercise, and reflection in order to achieve work life balance and unlock one’s true potential.

Sharma’s writing style is engaging and thought-provoking, making the book an enjoyable and transformative read. He seamlessly blends practical advice with compelling storytelling, creating a powerful narrative that resonates with readers on a deep level.

Whether you are a busy professional looking to achieve work life balance, an entrepreneur seeking personal growth, or anyone wanting to enhance their productivity and overall well-being, The 5 AM Club is a must-read. This book will inspire and empower you to take control of your mornings, elevate your life, and achieve the work life balance you desire.

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The Miracle Morning: The Not-So-Obvious Secret Guaranteed to Transform Your Life (Before 8 AM)

by Hal Elrod

The Miracle Morning: The Not-So-Obvious Secret Guaranteed to Transform Your Life (Before 8 AM) by Hal Elrod is a game-changing book that dives deep into the realm of personal development and productivity. If you’re seeking a book about work-life balance that will revolutionize the way you approach your mornings, then look no further.

Elrod introduces the concept of ‘The Miracle Morning’, a powerful routine designed to kickstart your day and set the tone for success. This book on work-life balance provides a step-by-step guide to creating a morning routine that encompasses six key practices: silence, affirmations, visualization, exercise, reading, and scribing.

By incorporating these practices into your morning routine, Elrod argues that you can transform your life and achieve a newfound level of productivity and fulfillment. This work-life balance book challenges the notion that success is solely dependent on working harder and longer, instead emphasizing the importance of intentional and purposeful mornings.

Elrod’s writing style is engaging and relatable, making it easy for readers to resonate with his message. He shares personal anecdotes and success stories from individuals who have implemented ‘The Miracle Morning’ routine and experienced remarkable transformations in their lives.

Whether you’re a busy professional, an overwhelmed parent, or simply looking to optimize your daily routine, ‘The Miracle Morning’ offers practical tips and strategies to help you achieve a harmonious work-life balance. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to unlock their full potential and create a life of abundance and fulfillment.

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The Art of Work: A Proven Path to Discovering What You Were Meant to Do

by Jeff Goins

The Art of Work is a captivating and insightful book on finding your true calling and purpose in life. Written by Jeff Goins, a bestselling author and renowned speaker, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to achieve work-life balance and discover what they were truly meant to do.

Goins takes readers on a journey of self-discovery, sharing inspiring stories and practical advice to help you navigate the complexities of finding your vocation. Whether you’re feeling stuck in a job that doesn’t fulfill you or simply yearning for a more purposeful life, this book about work-life balance will guide you towards your true calling.

Throughout the book, Goins emphasizes the importance of embracing the journey and learning from the ups and downs along the way. He encourages readers to listen to their inner voice, take risks, and trust that their unique skills and passions can lead them to a fulfilling career.

What sets this work-life balance book apart is Goins’ ability to blend personal anecdotes with practical strategies. He shares his own experiences of transitioning from a dissatisfying job to a thriving career as a writer, offering valuable insights and lessons learned along the way.

Whether you’re a recent graduate, a mid-career professional, or even contemplating a career change, The Art of Work provides a roadmap to help you uncover your true purpose. Through thoughtful exercises and thought-provoking questions, Goins guides readers through a process of self-reflection and exploration.

Ultimately, The Art of Work is a book on work-life balance that goes beyond merely finding a job. It’s about finding fulfillment, meaning, and purpose in your work. By applying the principles and lessons shared in this book, you’ll be empowered to create a life that aligns with your passions and brings you true joy.

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The Way We’re Working Isn’t Working: The Four Forgotten Needs That Energize Great Performance

by Tony Schwartz and Jean Gomes

The Way We’re Working Isn’t Working: The Four Forgotten Needs That Energize Great Performance, written by Tony Schwartz and Jean Gomes, is a groundbreaking book on achieving work-life balance. In this eye-opening exploration of modern work culture, the authors shed light on the four fundamental needs that are often overlooked in our pursuit of success.

Through extensive research and real-life examples, Schwartz and Gomes argue that our current approach to work is not sustainable and actually hinders our performance. They advocate for a holistic approach that recognizes the importance of physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being in achieving true success.

By addressing the needs for renewal, value, focus, and purpose, the authors present practical strategies and techniques to help individuals and organizations create a more balanced and fulfilling work environment. From managing energy levels to prioritizing tasks, this book offers valuable insights and actionable advice for anyone looking to improve their work-life balance.

Whether you’re feeling burnt out, overwhelmed, or simply seeking a better way to navigate the demands of modern work, The Way We’re Working Isn’t Working is a must-read. It provides a refreshing perspective on work-life balance, offering a roadmap to greater productivity, happiness, and overall well-being.

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The Organized Mind: Thinking Straight in the Age of Information Overload

by Daniel J. Levitin

The Organized Mind: Thinking Straight in the Age of Information Overload by Daniel J. Levitin is a game-changing book on work-life balance in the modern world. In today’s fast-paced society, we are bombarded with an overwhelming amount of information and distractions that can leave us feeling scattered and stressed. Levitin offers practical strategies and insights to help us regain control of our minds and find balance amidst the chaos.

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The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change

by Stephen R. Covey

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change by Stephen R. Covey is a transformative book that serves as a compass for anyone seeking to achieve a harmonious blend of success and fulfillment in their personal and professional lives. With its practical insights and thought-provoking wisdom, this book on work-life balance is a must-read for those who crave a more purposeful existence.

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The Four Tendencies: The Indispensable Personality Profiles That Reveal How to Make Your Life Better (and Other People’s Lives Better, Too)

by Gretchen Rubin

The Four Tendencies: The Indispensable Personality Profiles That Reveal How to Make Your Life Better (and Other People’s Lives Better, Too) by Gretchen Rubin is a fascinating book that delves into the different ways people approach work, life, and everything in between. If you’re looking for a book on work-life balance, this is the one for you!

Rubin introduces us to her framework of the Four Tendencies, which divides people into four distinct personality types: Upholders, Questioners, Obligers, and Rebels. Each tendency has its own way of responding to inner and outer expectations, and understanding these tendencies can help us better understand ourselves and others.

Whether you’re an Upholder who thrives on meeting both inner and outer expectations, a Questioner who constantly seeks justification for everything, an Obliger who easily meets others’ expectations but struggles with their own, or a Rebel who resists all expectations, this book offers valuable insights into how to navigate your own tendencies and work with others effectively.

With practical advice and real-life examples, Rubin provides strategies for harnessing the strengths of each tendency and overcoming their weaknesses. She also explores how the tendencies interact with each other, offering tips on how to communicate and collaborate with people who have different tendencies.

Overall, The Four Tendencies is a thought-provoking and enlightening read that will help you not only improve your own life but also foster better relationships and interactions with others. So, if you’re looking for a book about work-life balance or simply want to understand yourself and those around you better, this is the work-life balance book for you!

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The Now Habit: A Strategic Program for Overcoming Procrastination and Enjoying Guilt-Free Play

by Neil Fiore

The Now Habit: A Strategic Program for Overcoming Procrastination and Enjoying Guilt-Free Play by Neil Fiore is not just another book on work-life balance, it’s a game-changer. In this revolutionary guide, Fiore delves into the core issue of procrastination and offers a unique approach to achieving a harmonious work-life balance.

Fiore emphasizes that the key to overcoming procrastination lies in understanding the underlying psychological reasons behind it. He explores the concept of guilt-free play, showing readers that taking breaks and indulging in leisure activities is not only essential for productivity but also crucial for overall well-being.

This work-life balance book offers practical strategies and techniques to manage time effectively and eliminate the destructive habit of procrastination. Fiore provides a step-by-step program that helps readers identify the root causes of procrastination and develop a positive mindset towards work and leisure.

By incorporating concepts such as “unscheduling,” where scheduled leisure time takes priority over work, Fiore challenges the traditional belief that work should always come first. He encourages readers to create a balanced schedule that includes time for relaxation, hobbies, and personal fulfillment.

Through real-life examples and case studies, Fiore demonstrates how individuals can break free from the cycle of procrastination and achieve a fulfilling work-life balance. The Now Habit offers practical tools, such as the “Unschedule Tool” and the “Unschedule Weekly Worksheet,” to help readers implement the strategies discussed in the book.

With its refreshing perspective on work-life balance and its practical approach to overcoming procrastination, The Now Habit is a must-read for anyone looking to enhance productivity, reduce stress, and find joy in both work and leisure. So, if you’re seeking a transformative guide to achieving a guilt-free work-life balance, this book is your answer.

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The Upside of Stress: Why Stress Is Good for You, and How to Get Good at It

by Kelly McGonigal

The Upside of Stress: Why Stress Is Good for You, and How to Get Good at It by Kelly McGonigal is a fascinating book that challenges the conventional wisdom surrounding stress. Rather than viewing stress as something to be avoided or eliminated, McGonigal argues that stress can actually be beneficial and even necessary for a fulfilling life.

This book delves into the science behind stress, exploring how our mindset and beliefs about stress can shape our physical and mental responses to it. By reframing stress as a natural and adaptive response to life’s challenges, McGonigal reveals how we can harness its power to enhance our performance, relationships, and overall well-being.

With practical strategies and real-life examples, McGonigal offers a roadmap for navigating stress in a healthy and productive way. She provides techniques for embracing stress and using it as a catalyst for growth and resilience. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or simply someone looking to improve their work-life balance, this book offers valuable insights and actionable advice.

So if you’re searching for a book on work-life balance that challenges the traditional notion of stress as something negative, this is the perfect read for you. Discover the upside of stress and learn how to thrive in the face of life’s challenges.

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The 80/20 Principle: The Secret to Achieving More with Less

by Richard Koch

The 80/20 Principle: The Secret to Achieving More with Less by Richard Koch is a game-changing book on work-life harmony. This remarkable guide explores the concept of the 80/20 principle, also known as the Pareto Principle, which states that 80% of our outcomes come from 20% of our efforts. In other words, it reveals how we can achieve extraordinary results by focusing on the most important aspects of our lives.

With a touch of brilliance, Richard Koch introduces the idea that this principle can be applied to all areas of our lives, from our careers to our personal relationships. By identifying the vital few actions that lead to the greatest impact, readers can optimize their time, energy, and resources to create a more balanced and fulfilling existence.

Through captivating storytelling and practical examples, Koch empowers readers to reassess their priorities and make intentional choices that align with their values. This work-life balance book challenges conventional thinking and provides a fresh perspective on how to live a more purposeful life.

Whether you’re a busy professional striving to excel in your career or an individual seeking greater harmony between work and personal life, The 80/20 Principle offers invaluable insights and strategies to help you achieve more with less. Discover the secret to unlocking your full potential and finding the balance you’ve been longing for.

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The Work-Life Balance Myth: Rethinking Your Optimal Balance for Success

by Daisy Dowling

The Work-Life Balance Myth: Rethinking Your Optimal Balance for Success by Daisy Dowling is not just another book on work-life balance. It’s a game-changer, a fresh perspective on how we can achieve true harmony and fulfillment in our personal and professional lives.

In this groundbreaking book about work-life balance, Daisy Dowling challenges the traditional notion that we must strive for an equal division of time between work and personal life. Instead, she encourages us to rethink our approach and find a balance that works uniquely for us.

Dowling argues that the concept of work-life balance is a myth because it implies that work and life are two separate entities that need to be balanced against each other. In reality, our work is an integral part of our lives, and it’s essential to find a way to integrate the two seamlessly.

Through insightful anecdotes, research-backed strategies, and practical advice, Dowling guides us on a journey to redefine our optimal balance for success. She helps us identify our core values, set realistic goals, and establish boundaries that align with our priorities.

This work-life balance book is not about finding a perfect equilibrium, but rather about finding a rhythm that allows us to thrive in all areas of our lives. Dowling emphasizes that success should not be measured solely by external achievements, but by our overall well-being and happiness.

So, if you’re tired of chasing the elusive work-life balance and ready to create a life that truly fulfills you, The Work-Life Balance Myth is the book you need. It’s time to break free from the traditional mindset and discover a new approach that brings harmony and success in all aspects of your life.