When Work Doesn't Work Anymore: Women, Work, and Identity

By Elizabeth Perle Mckenna

Book Overview

In this groundbreaking book, Elizabeth Perle McKenna challenges the outdated system of work for professional women, and encourages readers to re-examine work as their sole identities, and, if they are unhappy, to allow room for their Lives. For every worn-out, emotionally depleted female professional who has ever sighed, "there has got to be a better way," here is the revolutionary book by Elizabeth Perle McKenna--herself a former publishing executive--that explores women's relationship with work. For decades, women have succeeded at traditional male jobs, but now, deep in the second stage of the feminist movement, they want lives that are integrated and whole. Based on original research and containing hundreds of interviews with prominent working women, this book exposes the inherent conflict between the way work traditionally is structured and rewarded, and what women desire and value in their lives. More important, it suggests new ways for women to identify their values, reclaim their identities, and define success on their own terms. Most importantly, this is not just another book about working mothers. Liz Perle McKenna deconstructs the myth that women can have it all, and shows that they risk true happiness until they give up that impossible ideal. The author's focus extends to every working woman who will most likely face a life-altering situation at some point in her career and will need to redefine what success means to her. Any woman who has been working for more than a few years will identify strongly with the issues raised here, and will be rewarded by the insights she gleans from this vital book.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0385317980
• ISBN13: 9780385317986
• Release Date: August 1998
• Publisher: Delta
• Length: 304 Pages
• Weight: 0.55 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 6.1" x 8.0"

Customer Reviews

Life Changing

I knew something was wrong - for years I "played the game" in Corporate America, but it was no longer enough. I read McKenna's book one Friday night...there it was in black & white...the validation of all I was feeling. That weekend I mourned the loss of a life that had become all-consuming, and began the journey to build a better life. It took 4 months and much soul searching, but I resigned from my high powered, Fortune 500 company position, and am now well on my way to the life I always dreamed about. I've sent copies of the book to all my stressed-out, "there must be a better way" girlfriends in Corporate America. It's a must read if you've ever wondered "at what price, success?"

For successful women who are ready for a change of life

This is a wonderful review of women in the workplace, the frustrations we face, and the history which has led us here. It's a source of comfort as women discover the underlying reasons of their struggle in managing home, self, and work. The only disappointment in this book is, as there is no easy answer and as we are all very different, the solution to this turmoil is vague. That said, When Work Doesn't Work is a great way to get you thinking about how to change your situation and hopefully enjoy (or atleast understand) you relationship with work.

A relevant thought-provoking resource for making changes.

Amongst a historical and social backdrop, Elizabeth McKenna tells her personal story about choices she made in an effort to balance her career and family. She illustrates the diverse choices and experiences of other women to make her point that all working people are asking a similar question about their careers---is this worth the personal sacrifice---despite marital status, being parents or non-parents, race, and/or age. This book goes further to make suggestions for making changes to the old corporate environment that has such a strong hold on who we are and what is expected of us. Traditionally, women have been the "caregivers" but more and more men are asking for many of the same things women want in the world of work.As the subtitle suggests, McKenna discusses how social expectations can have an impact upon our identity as women [playing by men's rules in the corporate world], wives and/or mothers.I found "When Work Doesn't Work Anymore" compelling due to my desire to stop the chaos in my life and spend more time doing what I believe is most important. McKenna summarized what I had been feeling during the past four years working in a super conservative environment with little pay-off. This is not a anti-feminist book. McKenna does not advocate leaving work as the only means of solving inner turmoil or balancing many roles. Rather, she explores radical and moderate changes people have made and how those changes contributed in both positive and negative ways to how they feel about themselves and their approach to work.If anything, McKenna poses thought-provoking questions and maintains that holding to one's personal values is the best choice.

Excellent book for female executives

As an executive coach and psychologist, I have provided this book to several of my clients. The overwhelming feedback is positive. Many have changed their lives (or at least their perspectives about work) as a result of further exploring the themes in this text. Most comment -- "I am not alone. Many people feel the way I feel." This book should be a business best seller. My hats off to the author for her research.

A Very Real Look at Our Values and Why We Work

This is the first book I have read of its kind. Not only does the author courageously explore the values and social expectations that entrap so many people in unhappy work situations -- but she also shares her experiences of re-evaluating her priorities. Anyone who has done the same (male or female) will find comfort and understanding in this book. It's scope is for women, but it does NOT alienate men. In fact, the last chapter is about how men experience these expectations and social pressures to "be someone" to an even greater degree than women. It's bound to touch a nerve in many folks who pick it up and are still deeply invested in social status -- and I'm not surprised it scared people. She was boldly honest about the judgements all too many people receive when they get off the "fast track". I agree with her completely -- our society needs to value people (their deeds) more , and status (i.e. job title) less. A bold, courageous account!