This book is helpful. You don't need much more of a review than that. I'm their target audience, someone who has been a career for a while but knows I'm capable of more. Did it give me everything I need to make next steps? Yes! Did it get a little meh in some places, also yes, but it did much more good than anything else. I appreciated seeing an up close look at their journeys. It's written for career woman and it was done well! Solid 3.9, rounded up.

Now, Near, Next was such a fun and practical read and is a playbook for professionals feeling trapped going around in circles, "Now, Near, Next" serves as a wake-up call to break free. Dr. Cynthia Bentzen-Mercer & Kimberly K. Rathcaptures the restlessness of stagnating mid-career, but argues this is actually an opportune time to chart an exciting new course. The book uses the systematic "Now, Near, Next" framework for actualizing potential as you energize self agency. From taking stock to envisioning possibilities to crafting a roadmap, it guides crucial self-reflection and planning. With real-world stories and straightforward language, this book has both inspiration and practical guidance. For those craving bigger adventures and maximized potential, this empowering read may supply the necessary impetus to finally disembark the merry-go-round.

Now, Near, Next promises to be a framework for women 'mid-career'. While I felt that a lot of the book was applicable and provided excellent insight about evaluating where you are and where you want to go, this would also be a great read for women early in their career. Thank you to Amplify Publishing for the ARC!

Description
For myriad women, the middle part of their careers can become a never-ending loop. They begin the journey, ready to dive in. They work hard, funnel all of their energy into the job, and don't let go. They hop from role to role, but eventually, as the decades progress, they realize that the ride has really been an endless circle. It's time to change that.

In this propulsive, activating debut, Now, Near, Next promotes self-advocacy and independence, moving away from the well-worn, outdated societal norms and expectations for women that hold them back. Taking control of the future is no longer just a priority—it is essential to becoming who we are meant to be.

Whether you carry a purse, briefcase, or anything in between, make sure a copy of Now, Near, Next is tucked inside at all times!

My Take:
You ever google a recipe and you read an essay about the writer's family's cat before getting to the recipe? This book is little like that. The recipe is there, and I think if followed, the outcome could be delicious-it's just getting to the recipe in the first place. Further, the advice is given for a wide audience of mid-career women: it does not take into account personal culture or geography of the mid-career woman or her potential network/personal board of advisors/mentors/etc.

Now, Near, Next is full of applicable suggestions. As a mid-career woman who is currently transitioning into a new career, this book came at the right time.

In addition to many recommendations and things to consider when evaluating your Now, Near, Next, there are also gentle reminders such as surrounding yourself with positive people and not letting guilt get the best of you.

Although this book primarily targets mid-career women, I do believe all of the 20-somethings could/should read this. There are so many tidbits and words of encouragement for anyone starting their career. After working in a toxic environment in my 20s, and feeling like I had nowhere to go, this book may have given me the courage to examine what I value most and what I shouldn’t have been willing to compromise on.

Since I received an ARC, the workbook mentioned wasn’t included, but having it would be a real asset. I appreciated the chapter recaps at the end of each section highlighting important questions and tasks to keep moving forward. I’m also happy to see Imposter Syndrome being talked about more and more.

Thank you Netgalley and Amplify Publishing for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

Now, Near, Next is more than a title to a book - it's a framework. It aims to inspire and guide mid-career women and prepare them for intentional advancement. Each chapter builds on the next with topics ranging from establishing boundaries, developing clear missions and values and surrounding yourself with a supportive network.

I requested this title as I would consider myself to be in the target audience for this book - mid-career woman. After reading the book and skimming through my notes, it just didn't hit the mark. The themes and approaches to remove obstacles did not resonate with my personal & professional experiences.

This could be an interesting read for those who are just starting their careers and/or are in the early stages of juggling family commitments and full time work.

*Thank you to Amplify Publishing for the opportunity to read this book in advance of its release date. Opinions are my own.*