"A Practical Rendition of the Processes We Need to Follow for Happier Personal and Work Lives"

[Following is a volunteer review of "From Drift to SHIFT" by Jody B. Miller.]

4 out of 4 stars

At crossroads in my life, I grabbed at the chance to read this book when I saw it on the review page. As I read and couldn’t wait to recommend to everyone who I thought could benefit, I knew I had a classic for my bookshelf. Jody B. Miller’s From Drift to Shift is a motivational non-fiction that provides a road map to achieving happiness and balance, whether in our business or personal lives. From Drift to Shift is built on the principle that change can herald true purpose and happiness in work and life. With over 12 years experience as a Career and Life Coach, Miller presents tried and tested road maps that will enable readers to, as she puts it, begin ”to happen to life” and not let life happen to them. The book doesn’t promise to flood your life with happiness instantaneously, but encourages readers to take note of the signs in their lives pointing them in a different direction, and make that turn to avoid floating or ‘drifting’ with the tides. It presents carefully selected and germane stories of everyday people who have scaled through walls of depression, disability, homelessness, abandonment, disease, divorce, and have emerged on the other side, purposeful and content with their path. With the aid of stories such as that of Serita and Reid Cox – co-founders of iFoster, and Emilee – two-time cancer survivor and certified wellness coach, Miller deftly shows us the process of change we must go through to achieve happiness in our life’s journey. It prompts self-reflection: asking ourselves different probing questions on our life situations so as to unearth our truest path. As Miller says,

you will learn to ask yourself the right questions and to recognize the opportunity to pursue your true purpose both professionally and personally. When you do, you will find profound success down to the core of your soul.

The book is divided into four parts with each part presented through inspiring stories of individuals who found their ‘shift’ and made the turn to happy living. Part one focuses on why we need to make that pivotal change in finding lasting peace through purposeful living. Part two helps us identify when to make a shift and part three focuses on how to successfully shift. Finally, part four suggests how to stay the course once you have found your path. At the end of each chapter, readers are given a list of takeaways to ensure the vital messages are digested and retained. I loved the unique way ideas are treated in the book, showing us with actual people how to live fuller lives despite life’s challenges; and not the usual abstract and impersonal narratives characteristic of such books. Unlike other traditional self-help books which “tell” the reader about “fixed” principles that would transform their life, From Drift to Shift actually “shows you how” to use the unique events in your life to direct you towards a life of contentment. Miller herself shared some roadblocks she has had to overcome to let us know we aren’t alone, and that we are capable of taking that swing that will make us happier. I didn’t find a reason to dislike the book in any way.

The book was nicely edited; I only spotted three errors in the book total. The page design made it pleasing to read, and the division of chapters into sections enables readers digest the information in chunks. I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars because it is a practical rendition of the processes we need to follow for happier personal and work lives. And it did this in a simple language devoid of pretences. I am glad I got to read this book as it has given me renewed confidence amidst personal health challenges that have stifled my progress and ultimately made me quit my last job. Emilee’s and Jerry’s stories, especially, are my boosters when the bleakness threatens. From Drift to Shift has helped me re-examine recent happenings in my life and set me on a path to achieving true contentment and success. Except for children who might not get the deeper message of the book, I believe this book will be greatly enjoyed by everyone. Whether you are a student, housewife, executive, or business mogul, the stories in From Drift to Shift will guide you in breaking away from the fear that tempts you to go with the flow, so you can start to pay attention to the signs that tell you to swim the course to success and happiness.

Post Views: 383