In 2003, I read Po Bronson's book, What Should I Do With My Life? as I was contemplating the second act of my career. The book profiles 50 individuals as they search for their true calling in life.

It was very interesting to me to learn the challenges of others as they made a journey similar to mine. Those stories were very useful to me as I made the work transition to non-profit industry in 2004.

If you're thinking about your second act and are unsure what to do next, I'd encourage you read this book as your first step. Understanding how others have crossed the same bridge is eye-opening.

One of my favorite books is Running to the Mountain by John Katz.

It chronicles the former ABC News producer and freelance writer's own personal mid-life journey to find himself within the confines of this own life parameters.

I particularly like one part where he realizes that as much as he likes change and uncertainty--in fact thrives on it--his family does not. He finds a way to create his own life change without it adversely affecting or uprooting his family.

I think many men can identify with that. I, for one, thrive on change and ambiguity. My family does not. I'm fortunate that my current day-job as an "internal entrepreneur" for a large organization generally provides me with that stimulation. For now.

I'm a builder, so I find myself searching for new things to build outside of work, like this blog, as a way to create a different kind of work/life balance.

Stupid? I wonder.