| Title:
Jesus' Ways to Success
Author: Biju Michael, sdb
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Success is defined by Webster's Dictionary as "the achievement of something designed, planned or attempted; the gaining of fame or prosperity." The Catechism tells us that Jesus, the Master, defines success as "fulfilling that for which we were created, namely, to know, love and serve God on earth so as to be happy with Him forever in heaven." Such success doesn't just happen. It has to be carefully planned and pursued. Goals -- long and short term -- have to be defined; a direction has to be set and certain rules have to be followed. Drawing on a wide variety of sources, biblical and otherwise, the author sets forth some very helpful guidelines for the pursuit of happiness here and hereafter. They include practical advice on how to be prepared, to work smarter, to give it your best and to put first things first in life. Among the many virtues discussed are honesty, loyalty, compassion, kindness, generosity, humility, forgiveness, prudence and perseverance. The Divine Master in His teachings, as set forth in these pages, provides a veritable treasure trove of good advice for everyone seeking success. |
Biju Michael is a Catholic priest and a member of the Congregation of the Salesians of Don Bosco. He just recently completed his Post Graduate Specialization in Moral Theology at Accademia Alfonsiana, Rome, Italy and is presently looking after 23 Novices and teaching Moral Theology at the Salesian Theologate in Meghalaya, India. He combines in his writing the knowledge from his Post Graduate Studies in Theology, Philosophy and English Literature, with the experience of teaching and working with youth in the field of leadership development. Previous publications include a co-edited work, Youth Vision published in 2002.
Everyone wants to be successful. Many how-to books have been written to help people. Father Michael uses the life and teachings of Jesus, along with many other stories of people, to illustrate the key steps to success. The first step is to establish goals. Ways to set achievable goals are provided along with methods of measuring progress, a critical step. Thinking through the steps needed to meet goals includes preparedness, perseverance, self-discipline and focus on the important. Working smarter involves prioritizing your tasks, managing your time, taking breaks, delegating, and avoiding procrastination. Creativity, enthusiasm, asking the help of others, and establishing a network of friends help you to give your best to your work. Character is very important: the end does not justify the means. You should be responsible, loyal, considerate, kind, share the praise, be humble, prudent and resilient, honest, compassionate and generous. People are the most important. Problems are only opportunities in disguise; the only people without problems are found in graveyards. Pertinent quotations from many people are found on nearly every page. The ways to success are sound. The extensive use of Jesus' example and preaching may be unique. This book could be useful to a person starting on a career path or who needs a change in direction. --John B. Shewmaker in Catholic Library World, September 2006
This book, intended for a general audience, weaves its way between the manner of a popular self-help book with titles such as "Dare to Win," "Establish Goals," "Be Prepared," "Work Starter," "Give It Your Best," and "Take a Power Break" and occasional reflections on Jesus' sayings inviting us to be good to others and to have integrity. Whether this formula will guarantee the author a place on the bestseller list, I am not sure, but some readers may find its warm style and practical advice helpful. --Donald Senior, C.P. in The Bible Today, May/June 2006
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