I’m currently in the (tedious, but fun) process of gathering information before we even begin to devise a plan of action. I have been researching online, researching in books, researching through conversation, and reading, reading, reading. Thus far, I have read three great books.
The first book is Marketplace Christianity by Robert Fraser. This book was recommended to me by two co-workers, and is an excellent read on how to effectively integrate your faith with your career. It is especially relevant to those in the business world, and gives some good perspective on how to stay away from the “sacred/secular” dichotomy (faith and work are two completely different things).
The second is the book Good to Great by Jim Collins. I loved this book! After I started reading it and raving to all my friends about how awesome this book was, I was informed by many that these were not new and novel concepts, and this book is actually a best-seller that most people have read. I guess that’s what reading only textbooks does to someone. Anyway, I usually don’t read business-oriented books, but I think I picked this one up at the right time because it really struck me and I found it applicable to more than just business. I think the concepts presented in this book are relevant on so many levels. OK, enough, enough… if you want to discuss this book, let’s do lunch.
The third book I’ve read is God Is At Work by Ken Eldred. Another excellent read! This
book is full of information on the role of Business as a transformational tool. It’s full of the strategy behind this movement, the history of this movement, the history and necessity of capitalism and democracy, excellent cultural information, and great summaries of approaches to complete transformational business (Microenterprise Development, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Overseas Private Equity). It is excellent, excellent information… I think I might need to read it twice just to let all of the info sink in.
In the midst of all this reading, I’m beginning to reach out and make contact with anyone and everyone who has experience with China. If you know of anyone who has experience with China or with a language school on any level… pass that information on!
AND I’m getting a little wordy… we’ll continue this “novel” at a later date.
Hey Katie! I just finished reading the book “Good to Great” and I too thought it was a great book with quite a few good insights. I will take you up on that offer to do lunch sometime to discuss it…but you might be in CHINA!
How exciting…sounds like you are really having a great life adventure.
Hi Julie,
Knowing how much time it takes to read a book, let alone twice, I suggest you go to www.jimcollins.com and click on “visit the lecture hall.” I have not read his book yet but I have read through his website, a few other reviews and synopsis, and have listened to these lecture exerpts, and I would imagine his key points are reviewed here - easy to listen to while you are doing something else. Hopefully, this is a helpful suggestion.
I will have to check out the book “God is at Work.” You are in our thoughts and prayers as you tackle this project!
LOIS