Time Off for Good Behavior: How Hardworking Women Can Take a Break and Change Their Lives

by Mary Lou Quinlan

Have you ever fantasized about taking time away from your overworked life? Nights uninterrupted by email? Days to pursue set-aside dreams? Do you promise yourself that "someday" you will get a break?... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0767918312
• ISBN13: 9780767918312
• Release Date: January 2005
• Publisher: Crown Archetype
• Length: 244 Pages
• Weight: 1.15 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 6.2" x 9.6"

Customer Reviews

Sometimes we need know it's o.k. to cry "uncle."

As I was reading this book, I felt like I had met my soul mate. I, too, am a Type-A "good girl." ("You need this report by Friday, would Thursday be better?") Fortunately for me, I was forced into a sabbatical before I really knew that I needed one (and then, of course, spent the next two years struggling with the fact that I had my entire identity wrapped up in my job/career, that only now am I beginning to enjoy life). I was floored when Mary Lou wrote about being so tired that incurring enough injuries to require a stay in the hospital (without being life-threatening) seemed an attractive way to take a break from the craziness. That thought had crossed my mind more times than I would like to admit. If you're thinking about taking time off, or are so tired that you can't even think, then you might want to pick this book up. Even if you can't financially swing a sabbatical, it's helpful to understand that you are not alone in feeling overwhelmed with your life.

Loved the personal stories...

I couldn't put the book down because of how much I related to the stories. Especially reading the early years of the author...the spelling bee's, wanting to the best of the best at everything. As I was reading on the train, I heard myself say out loud, "me too!" I have so many friends who will see themselves in this book. Buying it for them.

Take the Time to Read Time Off For Good Behavior

I thought this book was great. I loved the different perspectives that were woven into it -- including the psychology behind type A's, the variety of women's issues that were presented relating to work, life stage and lifestyle choices, and the impact this has on corporations. The actionable exercises at the end of the chapters were a great idea and can help women take the first steps towards assessing their own situations. Most of all, Mary Lou Quinlan acknowledged "taking time off for good behavior" was not easy, but the sharing of her own stories and her heartfelt honesty really makes this book a winner.

An inspirational and thought-provoking read!

Although we've all read a ton of inspirational books, this book finds a way into our hearts and minds like few others have. The reality is that we all want to do the right things in our lives but we sometimes just never find the time. Ms. Quinlan's attitude is full of good/smart heart-felt advice that I know many of us could benefit from. Definitely worth the read for both women AND men.

Excellent advice - for both men and woman

I have reviewed books for a major business magazine for over a year now, and I think this is one of the best I have seen. I worry, however, that the package makes this appear to be only for women. I think a lot of stressed-out men (particularly attorney friends of mine) will find some real inspiration and an action plan for taking control of what little life they have. Some may think this is all pie-in-the-sky stuff, but it's achievable with a little pragmatism. Read it and see if you don't agree.