Virtual Summer Sidewalk Sale


Price: $19.95    $15.96
Paperback: 135 pages
ISBN 9781576751169
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Price: $19.95    $15.96
PDF Download: 135 pages

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Amazon Reviews


34 of 34 people found the following review to be helpful:

Made a difference,  January 3, 2001

By Vivi

Drake clearly accomplishes his goal. In an easy-to-read, logical, step-by-step progression he helps the reader overcome doubts and fears, and then provides a wide range of downshifting actions-some risky; some involving little risk. I was impressed by his understanding of the corporate arena and the dangers that accompany cutting back at work. The clincher is his description about how to use any newfound time for increasing personal happiness.

I am writing this review because, on a personal level, it had a great impact on me. For years I've thought about finding a better work/life balance, but did nothing about it. This book brought me into action. Downshifting addressed two fears I had-lower income and less security. It helped me plan around these concerns and cope with the tradeoffs I have to make. I was most impressed with how the book's "enjoying life more" portion introduces concepts that have already improved my close relationships and how I feel about myself. I recommend it to anyone who has ever thought about a better balance in his or her life.





5 of 5 people found the following review to be helpful:

Also Great For Volunteer Workers,  January 2, 2001

By Dorothy S. Miller

While this book is focused on people who are in paid jobs, I found it provides unbelievable help to me as a near-full-time-volunteer who works for love. Drake has helped me see ways to slow down, do volunteer work more effectively, get rid of feelings of resentment that build up from over-involvement, and truly get back to enjoying life more.





10 of 12 people found the following review to be helpful:

New Directions,  January 25, 2001

By Robert McLoone

If you are on the fence, Downshifting will get you to move. Great psychological and spiritual insights to help live a more peace filled life.





6 of 7 people found the following review to be helpful:

Solid advice; practical examples,  May 27, 2005

By Jeff Davidson

The author consulted with readers trying to slow down the hectic paces of their professional lives. He helped them cut back on work and downshift by offering real-life anecdotes. The tone of this book is serious; the advice seems solid.





6 of 9 people found the following review to be helpful:

A Timely Discussion,  January 20, 2001

By Ronald Sibleynlsouth

Jack Drake has provided an easy to read, road mapped dialogue that is very important in today's work scenario. He recognizes the need to communicate with the thirty somethings and emphasize the importance of personal, as opposed to material, life. Well Done! The self help format should allow everyone to evaluate their individual needs. There is life after work!!







    • From the founder and former CEO of Drake Beam & Associates (now Drake Bean Morin, Inc.) the world's largest human resources consulting firm
    • Offers clear, step-by-step guidance on how to cut back on work-including how to convince employers to agree to downshifting
    • Details a wide range of practical downshifting options
    • Real-life stories from successful downshifters provide inspiration and encouragement

    Who has never wished to step off the ever-accelerating treadmill of work, just to gain some kind of balance in life? Downshifting is a practical, hands-on guide that actually shows how to move from the fast track to a more satisfying, healthier, less work-focused lifestyle. John Drake, himself a former high-level executive who chose to downshift, details a wide range of realistic, doable alternatives to a work-dominated life. He guides readers through all they need to know and do to make a good living, yet find more free time for themselves and those they care most about.

    Organized by level of risk-from such low-risk steps as simply changing work style to bold actions, such as flextime, lateral or downward moves, and shortened work weeks-this book is the first to really show how to put specific downshifting options into action. Using real-life stories of people who have successfully downshifted, Drake reveals how to get past the wistful dreaming and hand-wringing stages to taking decisive, thoughtful steps for implementing real change in your work-life.

    Step by step, the author walks the potential downshifter through all the stages of preparation, from examining personal fears and psychological readiness for change to analyzing the impact on loved ones and personal finances. And for those ready to initiate downshifting changes, he provides practical strategies and specific guidelines for selling downshifting plans to the organization, including vital information for determining the approach, timing, and presentation of a downshift proposal. Should the organization reject your downshifting plan, Drake shows how to leave bridges unburned, regroup, and wisely assess your alternatives.

    For readers just beginning to contemplate a work-life change or those eager to downshift, Downshifting provides the guidance, tools, encouragement, and proof needed to create a more balanced, relaxed, and fulfilling life.