Last year when I received the advanced manuscript for Embrace The Work, Love Your Career, I immediately found the book innovative. The author, @fran_hauser, calls it “A Guided Workbook For Realizing Your Career Goals With Clarity, Intention, And Confidence.” Her undertaking is ambitious and she pulls it off beautifully. First, the book is a first person advice narrative from a mentor. She introduces concepts and frameworks rooted in her own experience as a media executive and investor. For example, in a section called “Know Your Value,” Hauser tells a story of facing her fear of public speaking earlier in her career by visualizing a time when she gave a good speech and remembering all of the details that contributed to her success. She encourages the reader to foster “evidence-based confidence” to cultivate their own self-assurance. Second, the book is a series of exploratory exercises. One of the most powerful exercises for me was entitled “Draft Your Dream Team.” As Founder of The Cru, I was certain I already had my Dream Team and so I quickly started filling out the pages with names of “a supportive peer,” “a confidant who keeps you in check,” and “a mentor or coach,” but I was stumped by “an internal champion” because I’m the CEO of the company. I realized that no matter where you are on the leadership ladder, you still need internal advocates to execute your strategy. Third, the book is peppered with inspirational art quotes. Try to imagine that you’re a supermodel who knows you’re slaying in front of the camera because the photographer keeps showering you with affirmations: “You have the power to create your own opportunities” (click!). “You are not alone” (click!). “If you take a risk and it doesn’t go as planned, welcome to the club” (click!). Between the bright lights there are meditations, reflections, and even blank pages for doodling. Unlike reading a typical book, which can feel passive, #LoveYourCareerBook is an experiential journal. So light a candle, pour yourself a glass of wine or cup of tea, and prepare to be fully immersed and active as Hauser takes you on a journey of self-discovery. #WhatsOnMyNightstand #WOMN