A Book That Changed My Life: Now What? by Laura Berman Fortgang

Nancy Schwartz of the Getting Attention blog, and host of the June Nonprofit Blog Carnival, has asked bloggers to share their "one book" recommendations:

What single book (not blog, not conversation, not Facebook page) has changed your life as a nonprofit staffer, consultant or vendor? 

For me, that book would be Now What? 90 Days to a New Life Direction by Laura Berman Fortgang.  I read about it on Jory Des Jardins' blog, Pause (now, From Here to Autonomy) in early 2005.  I was 35, had worked for the same organization for six years, and was ready to start a new career.

By the time I'd finished Now What?, I'd given notice at my job, decided to start Big Vision Consulting, and was on my way to launching Have Fun, Do Good.  Over the past six years, I've read the book two more times when my career has felt stuck.  I've read it over 90 days, and over a couple weeks.  Whatever felt right at the time.  It has always instigated big changes. 

I've read a LOT of books about finding your path/career/calling/purpose, but it's hard for me to into words why Now What? is so effective. All I can say is that Laura asks the right questions.

A HUGE hat tip and hug to Jory Des Jardins for turning me onto Now What?, and also for being the person who inspired me to start blogging.  She's definitely on my list of people who have changed my life.  Check out two of Jory's posts about Laura's books:

• Career Coaching Icon's New Book Echoes Our Collective Migration from Craving "Success" to Seeking "Meaning" on BlogHer (May, 2009)
• Special Offer: Path to prosperity in some tough times on From Here to Autonomy (January, 2011)

You can learn more about Laura Berman Fortgang's work at www.laurabermanfortgang.com and nowwhatcoaching.com.

What book changed your life?

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