Doug Kisgen - Rethink Happy: An Entrepreneurs Journey Toward Authentic Joy

RETHINK HAPPY

Praise for Rethink Happy

Scaling up a business not only takes its toll on the owner; it tends to spill over onto the family and other personal relationships, often ending in tragic messes. But it doesnt need to be this way. We like to say that routine sets you freeand Dougs book brilliantly highlights those routines that will set you free, bringing joy to both your life and those around you. It just requires the same skills needed to grow a successful businessfocus and discipline.

Verne Harnish, CEO Gazelles and author of Scaling Up (Rockefeller Habits 2.0)

Recent high profile business disasters have reminded us that intellect, degrees and 80 hour weeks are not the essential ingredients for business success. In a delightful story form Rethink Happy captures the soul of business and reminds us that uncompromising character, respectful relationships and a commitment to the greater good of community lead to uncommon success and a life worth living.

Dan Miller, author 48 Days to the Work You Love

Rethink Happy is a wonderful surprise. Like any allegory, it takes the reader on the same journey as the protagonist, but most such stories telegraph the lesson long before the character in the book figures it out. Kisgens writing brings you along at the same speed, and with the same pleasure of discovery. Anyone who wonders why success in business is neverquiteenough owes this book to themselves!

John Dini, author Hunting in a Farmers World

Dougs book applies old-school philosophy with newschool science and wraps it into an engaging narrative that keeps the pages turning. And your mind thinking! Rethink Happy will do just what the title suggests: cause you to rethink how to achieve authentic joy. A must read for all business owners and entrepreneurs!

Ford Saeks, CEO Prime Concepts Group Inc.

Rethink Happy serves as a poignant reminder that its easy to succumb to self-centeredness, but in the end, the happiest people are those who live to serve others.

Paul Hogan, Chairman and Founder, Home Instead Senior Care

Original and entertaining, Rethink Happy offers down-to-earth self-discovery lessons through a light-hearted, purposeful story.

Mary Leonida, President and CEO, Polaris Cos. and Track Consulting

Everyone loses their way on their journey from time-to-time. Moreover, we struggle with the first steps to get us on the right path. Rethink Happy provides simple directions to find great joy in life for you and those you encounter on your journey in a compelling tale of mentorship.

Tim Opsitnick, Founder, JURINNOV Ltd.

Prepare to be inspired! Yes, each one of us is called to live a more authentic and meaningful life.

John S. Archer, President & CEO, Concepts for Business, LLC

Dougs book describes real-life situations that not only entrepreneurs and successful people struggle with. Many people are chasing the American dream without realizing what really matters in order to live a joyful life. Rethink Happy shows you whats truly important with a style, chapter format and characters that will keep you wanting to read more.

Shawn George, President, Elite Lighting Designs, Inc.

An Entrepreneurs Journey Toward

AUTHENTIC JOY

Doug Kisgen

RETHINK HAPPY

An Entrepreneurs Journey Toward AUTHENTIC JOY

2016 Doug Kisgen.

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To my wife and soul mate, Kate,
and our children,
Cass, Al, Joe, Liv, and Thomas.

I cant believe Ive gotten myself into this mess. Why am I going to all this effort if Im getting nothing from it? Whyd Camino have to pick me, of all the people at the game, to sit by that day? I was fine. Just fine. I was successful, had a place I felt at home, even though it was at Teds bar and ironically, not at home. I was a good fatherI mean, I provided for my kids and I didnt demand a lot from my wife.

The twinge of guilt was like an arrow to my heart, from out of nowhere, as I remembered my sons reaction last night when I tried Caminos suggestion to shoot the breeze with him. Did I really only want to talk to him when I was pointing out something he was doing wrong?

And my wife thought I came home early last night, even though it was a good two hours after I left the office. Okay, so maybe Im not going to get Father of the Year or the Husband Achievement Award, but my kids get pretty much everything they want and my wife can go shopping anytime.

I was just thinking about that at the game the other day. Ive got it pretty good. I mean, things could always improve, right? What was it I was daydreaming about that day? Before Camino pushed his way into my life? Oh yeah, I was thinking about the trip Id canceled with my son. Again. Ah yes, theres that familiar feeling of failure now. I wasnt even watching the game, and suddenly Id felt a presence.

A shadow fell over me, blocking the sun. As I wasnt seated within peanut-throwing distance of anyone else, naturally I looked up to see who could be blocking my sun. The tall stranger didnt say a word. Just took a seat (cmon man!) right next to me.

Okay, just ignore him. Dont let anybody spoil this time. Its me time! Cmon, Cleve. Back to the smell of the grass, the taste of the cold beer in your hand. This is the life! Am I right? Im free to do thisthats the American dream, right?