Something More: The Professional's Pursuit of a Meaningful Life

Randy Hain is an award-winning author, yes, but he is first and foremost a devoted family man. You'll read that on the back cover of his books, including his latest, Something More: The Professional's Pursuit of a Meaningful Life (Liguori, 2013).

I know it's true, though, because over the years, Randy has become someone I've emailed, consulted for advice, and admired from near and far. He's co-founder and managing editor of Integrated Catholic Life and did I mention he also has a day job as managing partner of a national executive-search firm?

Randy's the kind of guy who's up at 4 to make sure he gets his time in with God. Not so long ago, he mentioned to me that he was working on another book. I expressed my shock, admiration, and shock, and he replied to the effect that, "Well, if God wants me to do it, I'll do my best." The man is humble and hilarious, hard-working and hard-hitting.

Which brings me to this new book of his. It's like his other two books in that it's a business-oriented book. It's unlike his other books in that it taps into his wide network of contacts by giving them a voice.

Fourteen chapters, less than 150 pages, at least 20 different voices. If your head's spinning, never fear. Throughout the pages, Hain is the guide who points the discussion back to what it means to have a meaningful life and how, exactly, professionals from all walks of life have discovered it.

It sounds all well and good, and the cynic in me rolls her eyes. What could this successful businessman know about a work-at-home mom and juggling 476 other things?

Funny thing about that: though I don't wear my business clothes much anymore, and though just last month I finally gave away the last pair of heels in my closet, I gleaned as much wisdom from this short compilation than I have from any of the mommy-oriented books I've read.

It is so easy to get caught up in what needs done, wherever you're logging on, clocking in, or working away. Whether it's dishes and diapers or payroll and policies, Hain's collection of discussions will point you, ultimately, to the core of what life's supposed to be about.

Hint: it isn't the paycheck. Or the house. Or the other stuff.

At the end of each chapter, there are reflection questions and at the end of the book, there's a chapter of practical steps and two appendices with really useful reference material.

Overall, this is a book I highly recommend. Read it. Share it. Take its advice.

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Copyright 2013, Sarah Reinhard