Book Review: The Heart of Success

This is probably the most unusual, and the most persceptive, Management training book which I have ever read.

It is presented in the form of a narrative, about "Jack", the budding entrepreneur who questions the meaning of success. By chance, he meets up with the legendary Professor Tom Murray, who offers to give him the benefit of his experience. There then follows a series of informal chats about the seven principles of success. Jack is trying to understand the real measure of success - which is not just the accumulation of money, or power, but rather the proper work-life balance. The Professor's Seven Laws are:

1. Don't Settle for Being "Money Rich"-"Time Poor"
2. Believe that the Job You Do Makes a Difference
3. Play to Your Strengths - Find Your Factor "X"
4. Believe in the Power of Dreams
5. Put Your Family Before Your Career
6. Keep the Common Touch
7. Don't Settle for Success: Make a Difference - Strive for Significance

These are not just pious ideas penned by a christian writer. They are practical pointers of how to manage your life-work balance. But more than just instructions - they are interspersed with believable illustrations from Rob's own experience.

It is worth pointing out the significant number and quality of the supporting references. People who have commented favourably on this book include Jim Wright of SmithKlein Beecham, Chris Street of Alcatel, Stephen Horswell of AXA, and Kang Choon Pin of Arthur Andersen. Rob's earlier book - "The Sixty Minute Father" - also had a favourable writeup by John Harvey-Jones.

This is not your usual "Success" book.