Kevin Carroll, former athletic trainer for the Philadelphia 76ers and Nike executive, was one of the speakers at a recent simulcast event that GiANT put on. I grabbed his book, The Rules of the Red Rubber Ball, while at the event & spent a couple of days this week reading through it. It's a very unique book in how it is presented and reminds you of, as Newsweek calls it, "...an adult's version of Dr. Seuss's Oh, the Places You'll Go! - a pocket-size guide to finding your way in life."

"Take what you love to do and find a way to make money at it." This is one of those modern-day staples of career wisdom that I have even found myself doling out to those behind me, just getting ready to start out in their careers. Kevin Carroll takes this wisdom a step further by outlining several 'rules' that will help you do just that.

There's nothing really profound in this little book (it's literally about 6"x4") - at least nothing that isn't either something we've all heard before or is common sense. But, as with all good writers, Carroll presents it in a way that brings freshness (and fun) and encourages you in a way that you feel you could step right into the suggestions he makes.

The "Red Rubber Ball," according to Carroll is the life work that brings you joy, enthralls you, inspires you, that you dream about, etc. It's our 'sweet spot' in life.

Here's the seven "rules of the red rubber ball" in quick format:

1. Commit To It - Following your Red Rubber Ball requires us to give all of ourselves to the pursuit
2. Seek Out Encouragers - Sustaining your life work cannot be done alone
3. Work Out Your Creative Muscles - The paths on your pursuit aren't always obvious or easy; creativity is required
4. Prepare to Shine - Each day is an opportunity live out your life's work; look for the defining moments
5. Speak Up - Never accept the boundaries imposed on you; sometimes you must alter the course when necessary
6. Expect the Unexpected - Be aware of & embrace the things that, no matter how unlikely, reinforce the pursuit you are on
7. Maximize the Day - Pursuit must become your daily routine

Rules of the Red Rubber Ball is one of those books that is good to keep on your desk, or your nightstand, or in a place that you will see it each day as a reminder of what you are pursuing in life. It is fun (probably the most unique looking book I have read since I was a kid), and a good, short read - it took me two nights to read before falling asleep in bed; it will likely take you about 30-45 minutes to get through.