I have completed my book report of Balancing Your Family, Faith & Work by Pat Gelsinger.
Who would I recommend this book to? This is difficult for me to say as I don?t know the extent in which others struggle with this topic. To me this was one of the most significant books I?ve read. Seemingly everyone should read this book, but especially those newly married or soon-to-be-so. Those especially who prioritize work first in their life. The harder working, more determined you are to succeed in the business world ? the more you need to read this book to ensure that you reach your goals and reach the ultimate goal of your place in the eternal kingdom of heaven...
That said, a mere synopsis would not do this book justice so I have therefore kept it brief. To better know the initial impact this book has had, and will continue to have on my life, check out my other blog grow.
This book is an excellent example of how a Christian business person should live and prioritize their life. The author conveys the message of being a clear witness to the Gospel - passionate and emphatic.
Pat Gelsinger, Chief Technology Officer of Intel is a man of significant accomplishment in the high-tech industry and therefore has instant credibility on time management and work ethic. His testimony at the beginning of the book gives the reader a true sense of where Pat's heart and mind are with regard to his faith and family.
The book has four significant action items:
Create a Personal Mission Statement
WRITE DOWN a mission statement complete with your own set of values and specific goals. The author asks us to ask ourselves:
- Do you have a destination in mind for life?
- Do you have a strategy for how you're going to get there?
- How will you know you've hit a critical milestone? - or when you're off coarse?
In business we spend so much time on the strategic vision of the company. Business plans, marketing initiatives, the list goes on. The author challenges us to put the same efforts into ourselves.
Prioritize God, Family Time, and Hard, Productive Work
The author breaks down ways in which we the reader may prioritize God in each of these areas. From tithing to participation in bible study many examples are given to make God a significant part of your daily life. The author does the same with the other two areas and provides solid examples of how this can effectively be accomplished.
Another significant point the Author makes in this part of the book is to "Handle every responsibility to the best of your ability - even when its not a high priority". He goes on to give examples of how he has done this in his own life.
Form Mentor Relationships
Obtain a mentor or mentors in areas where you seek to grow. You may find one mentor or seek out specific mentors in different areas such as your faith or various aspects of business.
The author challenges us to find a peer that is willing to provide objective and honest feedback. This peer is effectively your accountability partner.
Lastly, the author challenges us to select mentorees. Those earlier in their career that may benefit from your advice, experience and guidance.
Become a Clear Witness to the Lord
The author does a good job of laying out clear and sensible guidelines in this area. ?Implied Accountability? is a concept that is used to ensure that Christians who profess their faith have to back it up in their words and actions ? it is what others around us, both Christians and non-Christians will expect. The "clear" in clear witness should also be noted. A clear witness is forthright in his faith and willing to take a stand.
