Book Review: The Barefoot Executive by Carrie Wilkerson

I have worked in the field of mental health for the past fifteen years. There have been many highlights to working with children and families; however, within this past year, I have seriously begun to question what I am doing with my career. I have weighed the pros and cons and have yet to come to a decision about the next step in my life or simply answer the questions, “Do I need to make a change?” and “Should I work from home?” I began my small jewelry business years ago and have sold pieces through my website; however, it is a side business to my full-time job and raising two kids, taking care of my family, and maintaining our home.

I was eager to read The Barefoot Executive: The Ultimate Manual for Being Your Own Boss and Achieving Financial Freedom, written by Carrie Wilkerson, in the hopes that it would give me some tips/advice on my dilemma. As the title of the book states, The Barefoot Executive is a book that provides information to readers about becoming financially independent. It assists readers by asking important thought-provoking questions, which guide them through the process of figuring how to achieve financial independence using their knowledge and skill set. Personal stories as well as stories of other successful individuals are used to support the main ideas discussed. In addition, links to online videos are provided so readers can listen to Wilkerson talk about these main ideas.

I have been thinking about this next step in my life so much that it’s overwhelming me. The Barefoot Executive has given me a framework so I can structure my thoughts. This helps immensely. There are so many sections of the book that resonated with me, particularly the mistakes I have made. One of the key points that hit home for me was when Carrie Wilkerson discusses the importance of not just chasing the million dollar idea and discounting the ideas that generate a little money at a time. There are plenty of other opportunities that can generate income in smaller amounts. The money can add up and I can gain more experience along the way. Wilkerson also discusses the importance of not “chasing too many rabbits”. If you are attempting to focus on too many projects, you’re most likely not going to be able to make the progress you wish. You need to give more time to one project in order for it to truly succeed. This has been so true for me. I tend to take on more than I should in the hopes that I can make it all work. This is partially the reason why I closed down my main jewelry website and I am just selling some pieces on Etsy.

The Barefoot Executive is an essential resource for people such as myself who need to structure their thoughts, develop a clear understanding of their goals, and plan for their future.  I believe that Carrie Wilkerson is an amazing testament that hardwork pays off and you can be successful if you have the right framework.  Now, I need to get to work on following her advice!
More about the author:
Carrie Wilkerson has become a major resource for thousands of people in the world of business.  As an author and speaker, she has motivated people to achieve their dreams.  She uses her personal story to demonstrate to others that success is possible.  She is a wife and mother of four children.

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*Disclaimer: I did not receive monetary compensation for this post. I received a free copy of this book from Living Your Moment for the purpose of this review. The opinions expressed here are my own.