Over the holidays, I read two or three good books – but none better, nor more useful than The Daily Six, by John Chappelear. Subtitled “Six Simple Steps to Find the Perfect Balance of Prosperity and Purpose”, this is a great coaching manual for anyone who wants some practical guidelines for keeping things in perspective, while developing a prosperous career. The tough economy will present a seductive temptation to tip the scale in favor of work – over everything else. We all know that’s not a good idea. This book underscores that.

A self-described “recovering big shot”, John Chappelear had it all – then lost most of it. A multi-million dollar business, with all the attendant trappings, was lost (and repossessed) practically overnight. His wife kicked him out (for good), and his kids disowned him (though not for good).

It was what he calls his “Gift of Desperation” that set him on a path to figure out how to live again, and this time, how to get it right. By developing “The Daily Six” – a list of (guess how many) simple but profound principles to practice every day (hence, the daily bit), he slowly, but surely, re-built a balanced life, replete with career success, meaning, fulfillment, and family.

If this were just another self-help book, I probably wouldn’t have read it, and I surely wouldn’t be blogging about it. Here’s what I like about it:

• It’s short (130 pages).
• It’s full of good stories. I like stories. I learn from stories. These are good stories.
• It’s practical. There’s nothing in it I can’t do.
• It’s actionable. There’s nothing worse than a book full of lofty ideas, but no call to action. Well, there are things that are worse. But you know what I mean.
• You get the impression, from reading John’s words, that this is a guy who’s really grounded, thoughtful, wise, and somebody you’d probably like to hang out with.

You don’t need me to tell you where you can buy a book. But I’d suggest you order it from Chappelear’s website, www.JohnChappelear.com. He’ll even sign it for you.

Gotta go. One of the “six” is to have a daily quiet time. I’m going for mine now.

Richard Hadden is a leadership speaker, author, and consultant who helps organizations improve their business results by creating a great place to work. He and Bill are the authors of the new book Contented Cows MOOve Faster, as well as the acclaimed business classic Contented Cows Give Better Milk. Learn more about them and their work at ContentedCows.com.