Take Time for Your Life

Take Time for Your Life
 by Cheryl Richardson, Broadway Books, New York, 2000. ISBN 0767902076

If you haven't heard of Cheryl Richardson - where have you been?  Obviously you don't watch Oprah.  Cheryl has a regular spot on Oprah's show and has single-handedly put coaching on the map.  This is the kind of book that I will readily give to many of my coaching clients.  It is easy to read, inexpensive and truly covers all of the key aspects of a coaching relationship.  Best of all, it shows individuals how to go through the coaching process with a group or partner and does not advocate trying to do it alone.  The introduction of a another party is one of the key reasons why coaching works.  It is a workbook that doesn't look or come across like a workbook.  I also found the book to be nonlinear.  That is, if you wanted to concentrate on one of the steps, that is OK.  It doesn't appear that they have to be done in order.  However, as a coach, I do believe that they are in a sound and progressive order.  

On the other hand, I didn't give it the full four coloured balls because I found it somewhat simplistic, very Americanized (all the resources are US), and there is something about any self help book that always makes me wary.  As a resource, I think it is great; as an answer to all that ails us, I think it isn't.  In all fairness, I suspect that Cheryl would agree and point out that this was a way to make the practice of personal coaching accessible to everyone.  And that it has done.  This book has been consistently on the best sellers list since its release in last year and now that it is out in paperback, it is sure to become a common sight on many bookshelves.

Here is her practical, seven-step program that she says will help you create the life you want.

Step 1: If you think "selfish" is a dirty word, learn to practice extreme self-care--put yourself at the top of the list and everyone else will benefit!
Step 2: If your schedule doesn't reflect your priorities, stop reacting to life and take control of what gets your time and attention.
Step 3: Identify the things that drain you and eliminate them--people, places, and things--once and for all.
Step 4: If you feel trapped by money, investing in your financial health will stop making you feel like a victim.
Step 5: Kick the adrenaline habit! Identify the things that fuel you and discover healthy, new sources of energy.
Step 6: If you feel lonely or isolated, learn how to surround yourself with high-quality relationships that support, challenge, and encourage you to be your best.
Step 7: Don't let life get in the way of your spiritual well-being--connect to your inner wisdom and create a personal practice.

RFH (00/09)

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