Put your values first and focus on what matters most

Despite our good intentions, many of us experience a chronic imbalance between the desire to live our values and the distractions and never-ending to-do lists that can get in the way. In Your 168: Finding Purpose and Satisfaction in a Values-Based Life, readers learn how to pursue a values-based life by identifying and committing to their values and priorities. The book is written by bestselling author Harry Kraemer, former Chairman and CEO of Baxter International and currently a professor of management and strategy at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, where he was a Professor of the Year. Kraemer uses personal stories and insights from others to help readers discover the dissonance between what they say is most important and where they actually devote their time. This is an eye-opener for most people, uncovering the obstacles to leading a value-based life.

In Your 168, you will learn how to make changes and build new habits that put your values first by:

●      Using self-reflection to identify what matters most and become more aware of how you spend your time

●      Re-evaluating priorities such as career, family, health, recreation, spirituality, and making a difference

●      Avoiding unpleasant “surprises” and “hitting the brick wall”

●      Experiencing better balance in real time amid shifting priorities—personally and professionally

Fans of Kraemer's previous books on values-based leadership will embrace this new release - Your 168: Finding Purpose and Satisfaction in a Values-Based Life. The book provides actionable advice, filled with tips on how to live a life of meaning and experience a greater sense of purpose. Everyone will feel inspired to make lasting change.

All of Harry’s proceeds from the book sales are donated to the One Acre Fund in Africa.

HARRY M. JANSEN KRAEMER, JR., is Professor of Management and Strategy at Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management, where he teaches in the MBA and the Executive MBA programs and was a Professor of the Year. He is an executive partner with Madison Dearborn Partners, one of the largest private equity firms in the United States, and is former Chairman and CEO of Baxter International Inc., a multi-billion-dollar global healthcare company. Kraemer is the bestselling author of From Values to Action and Becoming the Best.

Acknowledgments ix

About the Author xi

Introduction: The Most Important Number 1

Section One Defining Balance 11

1 Becoming Self-Aware 13

2 Why Are You Surprised? 29

3 Hitting the Brick Wall 45

4 Building New Habits 61

5 The Art of Being Planful—And Spontaneous 79

Section Two The Balancing Action Plan 97

6 Life Balance In Real Time 99

7 Strengthening Family, Friends, and Community 115

8 Health: The All-Purpose Bucket 133

9 The Importance of Fun 151

10 Faith and Spirituality: Strength at the Core 165

11 Making A Difference: The Legacy You Leave 183

Epilogue: Your Values-Based Life Journey Continues 195

Notes 197

Index 201