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Inner Fire: Protecting Your Spirit from Corporate Burnout
"This is the book I wish I had earlier in my corporate career. Based on Lisa Wolfe’s extensive experience and sage insights, Inner Fire provides practical guidance for professionals seeking to avoid burnout and thrive in the corporate world."
— Kathryn W. Guarini, PhD, Former Chief Information Officer at IBM, Director at Regeneron, and Visiting Lecturer at Cornell Tech
Reignite Your Career Passion
In Inner Fire, Lisa Wolfe, a trailblazer with four decades of leadership experience in the tech industry, shares her hard-won wisdom on how to become a Spirit-Keeper—someone who has learned to nourish and protect her inner vitality and humanity in the face of workplace challenges. Through a combination of lived experience in the corporate world, personal anecdotes, and insights from other professionals who have maintained their spirits, Wolfe offers a practical guide for anyone at any stage of their career seeking to reignite their passion for work and maintain their vitality in the face of corporate burnout.
Each chapter delves into a unique lesson, combining personal stories, insights from other Spirit-Keepers, and practical advice for putting the lesson into practice. Wolfe covers topics such as
Clarifying your personal vision and valuesDeveloping self-confidence and self-relianceBuilding exceptional relationships and networksSpeaking up against injusticePrioritizing boundaries and work-life integrationRecognizing your own and others' achievementsLeveraging flexibility and interdependenceStaying agile and resilient in the face of constant changeInner Fire is a respite and a resource for busy corporate professionals, offering them accessible wisdom and tools to preserve meaning and vitality within their everyday workplace world.
— Kathryn W. Guarini, PhD, Former Chief Information Officer at IBM, Director at Regeneron, and Visiting Lecturer at Cornell Tech
Reignite Your Career Passion
In Inner Fire, Lisa Wolfe, a trailblazer with four decades of leadership experience in the tech industry, shares her hard-won wisdom on how to become a Spirit-Keeper—someone who has learned to nourish and protect her inner vitality and humanity in the face of workplace challenges. Through a combination of lived experience in the corporate world, personal anecdotes, and insights from other professionals who have maintained their spirits, Wolfe offers a practical guide for anyone at any stage of their career seeking to reignite their passion for work and maintain their vitality in the face of corporate burnout.
Each chapter delves into a unique lesson, combining personal stories, insights from other Spirit-Keepers, and practical advice for putting the lesson into practice. Wolfe covers topics such as
Clarifying your personal vision and valuesDeveloping self-confidence and self-relianceBuilding exceptional relationships and networksSpeaking up against injusticePrioritizing boundaries and work-life integrationRecognizing your own and others' achievementsLeveraging flexibility and interdependenceStaying agile and resilient in the face of constant changeInner Fire is a respite and a resource for busy corporate professionals, offering them accessible wisdom and tools to preserve meaning and vitality within their everyday workplace world.
171 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 14, 2025
25 people are currently reading
1818 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
December 28, 2024
In nine chapters Lisa examines life with regards to work, and what's intriguing is how she uses metaphors to explain what happens when we burn out.
So, if you are losing enthusiasm for work, or want to balance your work and life to ensure that your body is not exhausted or drained, then I would recommend reading this book. It doesn't have the quick fix answers, it does have the insights that would help you see things as they are.
She also in the first chapter talks of spirit keepers as people whose light never seems to dim and they're in the workplace, at home and in our lives and what lessons she draws from their approach to life.
Thanks Netgalley for the eARC.
So, if you are losing enthusiasm for work, or want to balance your work and life to ensure that your body is not exhausted or drained, then I would recommend reading this book. It doesn't have the quick fix answers, it does have the insights that would help you see things as they are.
She also in the first chapter talks of spirit keepers as people whose light never seems to dim and they're in the workplace, at home and in our lives and what lessons she draws from their approach to life.
Thanks Netgalley for the eARC.
March 23, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, Advantage Books, for providing me with a digital ARC for my honest review.
While I do not work in "corporate America," as many like to brag, I work in a field that is just as demanding with long hours and high expectations. Unfortunately, I do not get the big paychecks that those in "corporate America" receive. That said, there is much to learn from this book that can be applied to other areas.
Lisa Wolfe's "Inner Fire: Protecting Your Spirit from Corporate Burnout" is a guide for anyone navigating corporate life. Wolfe addresses the nature of burnout, moving beyond the typical surface-level discussions to delve into the deeper, spiritual toll it takes. She presents a compelling argument that corporate environments often prioritize output over well-being, leading to a gradual erosion of one's inner fire – that vital spark of passion and purpose. Wolfe's writing is both empathetic and pragmatic, offering readers a roadmap for reclaiming their sense of self amidst the pressures of demanding careers. She blends personal anecdotes with actionable strategies, making the book both relatable and useful.
What distinguishes "Inner Fire" is Wolfe's emphasis on protecting and nurturing one's spiritual core. She goes beyond the typical self-care advice, encouraging readers to reconnect with their values, cultivate mindfulness, and establish healthy boundaries. Wolfe provides practical tools for identifying the specific triggers that contribute to burnout within a corporate setting, empowering individuals to take proactive steps to safeguard their mental and emotional health. The book's strength lies in its holistic approach, recognizing that true resilience requires addressing not only the physical symptoms of burnout but also the underlying spiritual and emotional depletion.
Ultimately, "Inner Fire" is a resource for anyone seeking to thrive, not just survive, in the corporate world. Wolfe's guidance and compassionate tone create a safe space for readers to acknowledge their struggles and embark on a journey of self-preservation. This book is not about escaping corporate life, but rather about transforming one's relationship with it. It offers a compelling message: that it's possible to maintain professional success without sacrificing one's inner fire. Wolfe's work provides hope for those feeling the weight of corporate burnout, offering practical strategies and a renewed sense of empowerment.
While I do not work in "corporate America," as many like to brag, I work in a field that is just as demanding with long hours and high expectations. Unfortunately, I do not get the big paychecks that those in "corporate America" receive. That said, there is much to learn from this book that can be applied to other areas.
Lisa Wolfe's "Inner Fire: Protecting Your Spirit from Corporate Burnout" is a guide for anyone navigating corporate life. Wolfe addresses the nature of burnout, moving beyond the typical surface-level discussions to delve into the deeper, spiritual toll it takes. She presents a compelling argument that corporate environments often prioritize output over well-being, leading to a gradual erosion of one's inner fire – that vital spark of passion and purpose. Wolfe's writing is both empathetic and pragmatic, offering readers a roadmap for reclaiming their sense of self amidst the pressures of demanding careers. She blends personal anecdotes with actionable strategies, making the book both relatable and useful.
What distinguishes "Inner Fire" is Wolfe's emphasis on protecting and nurturing one's spiritual core. She goes beyond the typical self-care advice, encouraging readers to reconnect with their values, cultivate mindfulness, and establish healthy boundaries. Wolfe provides practical tools for identifying the specific triggers that contribute to burnout within a corporate setting, empowering individuals to take proactive steps to safeguard their mental and emotional health. The book's strength lies in its holistic approach, recognizing that true resilience requires addressing not only the physical symptoms of burnout but also the underlying spiritual and emotional depletion.
Ultimately, "Inner Fire" is a resource for anyone seeking to thrive, not just survive, in the corporate world. Wolfe's guidance and compassionate tone create a safe space for readers to acknowledge their struggles and embark on a journey of self-preservation. This book is not about escaping corporate life, but rather about transforming one's relationship with it. It offers a compelling message: that it's possible to maintain professional success without sacrificing one's inner fire. Wolfe's work provides hope for those feeling the weight of corporate burnout, offering practical strategies and a renewed sense of empowerment.
February 7, 2025
Exactly what I needed
I received this book from a Goodreads giveaway.
I have been in my current role for 2 years and my teams role within the corporation keeps growing as we continue to have success in the duties we have been taking care of. The old, do a good job and you get to do others work too. I’ve been feeling not as excited about work and knew I needed to work on that. This book came at the perfect time.
Lisa does a great job at breaking down the things needed to keep the spark alive when working for a large corporation. I’ve experienced poor management and I’ve experienced great management. This book reminded me of where I was and the forward progress I have made in ny career despite roadblocks.
I would encourage anyone who is feeling on the edge of burnout or any manager who wants to keep their team from being burnt out.
I received this book from a Goodreads giveaway.
I have been in my current role for 2 years and my teams role within the corporation keeps growing as we continue to have success in the duties we have been taking care of. The old, do a good job and you get to do others work too. I’ve been feeling not as excited about work and knew I needed to work on that. This book came at the perfect time.
Lisa does a great job at breaking down the things needed to keep the spark alive when working for a large corporation. I’ve experienced poor management and I’ve experienced great management. This book reminded me of where I was and the forward progress I have made in ny career despite roadblocks.
I would encourage anyone who is feeling on the edge of burnout or any manager who wants to keep their team from being burnt out.
February 1, 2025
In this nonfiction book, the author talks about what it has been like to be a trailblazer in the tech industry. She speaks at length and in great detail about the challenges inherent to this industry and how it is important if you get into it to avoid suffering burnout. There are various pressures that are difficult to avoid. If you take her lessons to heart, though, you can learn to deal with them in healthy ways and without compromising your vision.
Corporate burnout is a real thing, and there should be many individuals who will respond well to this author’s teachings. Her advice is not just restricted to the tech industry, though. No matter what field you’re in or the stage of your career in which you find yourself, this excellent book can be your guiding light if you let it.
Corporate burnout is a real thing, and there should be many individuals who will respond well to this author’s teachings. Her advice is not just restricted to the tech industry, though. No matter what field you’re in or the stage of your career in which you find yourself, this excellent book can be your guiding light if you let it.
February 6, 2025
Live to work or work to live? It is something I always ask myself, especially working in HR and managing people’s emotions. I decided to read this book to gain new perspectives for myself and my team. People are the most important part of any business, and they should enjoy what they do. The author recognizes the importance of preserving your soul. She emphasizes the tech world, but burnout can happen in any industry. I really appreciate that she invites the reader to recognize their emotions and provides insights on managing them before the fire can burn and become harmful. People’s peace is very important, and we should enjoy both life and work. Give yourself a chance to gain new perspectives on how to manage those emotions that can be harmful.
February 7, 2025
What an inspiring book! As someone who has been in the industry for decades, Wolfe shares her wisdom and experience in an authentic and accessible way.
I really liked how the author tackles topics that are critical to maintaining our humanity in the workplace. From identifying our core personal values to setting limits between professional and personal responsibilities. What struck me most was Wolfe's genuine authenticity. It's easy to identify with her because she shares her personal triumphs and setbacks.
In short, Inner Fire is essential reading if you wish to sustain your passion and vitality within a professional setting. Lisa Wolfe is a writer who conveys sincerity and provides actionable guidance capable of transforming one's life. It is strongly encouraged.
I really liked how the author tackles topics that are critical to maintaining our humanity in the workplace. From identifying our core personal values to setting limits between professional and personal responsibilities. What struck me most was Wolfe's genuine authenticity. It's easy to identify with her because she shares her personal triumphs and setbacks.
In short, Inner Fire is essential reading if you wish to sustain your passion and vitality within a professional setting. Lisa Wolfe is a writer who conveys sincerity and provides actionable guidance capable of transforming one's life. It is strongly encouraged.
February 5, 2025
Inner Fire by Lisa Wolfe is a must-read book for anyone in the corporate world who is looking for a way to hold onto their own “fire” in a challenging and sometimes soul-destroying environment. Wolfe guides readers on how to preserve one’s soul by taking care of the important things in life including relationships, personal passion, boundaries and a lot more. Filled with plenty of concise and practical advice as well as inspiring personal stories, this is an excellent guidebook for avoiding corporate burnout. If you’re involved in the corporate landscape or know a friend who is, this book is the perfect gift for yourself or others. I am giving this book five out of five stars.
February 6, 2025
Awesome Book!
From the cover I felt very identified with this book, I am a person who understands the importance of spiritual life not only in the development of the individual but in the balance of life in general. I consider that this book touches on very important and increasingly relevant topics such as avoiding burnout at work and therefore in life in general. Undoubtedly, this book seems to be a manual and a guide for all those who want to enhance their lives through inner balance and the discovery of their essence. I recommend this book for all those who want to feel more confident and secure in their daily lives through inner strength. Great book!
From the cover I felt very identified with this book, I am a person who understands the importance of spiritual life not only in the development of the individual but in the balance of life in general. I consider that this book touches on very important and increasingly relevant topics such as avoiding burnout at work and therefore in life in general. Undoubtedly, this book seems to be a manual and a guide for all those who want to enhance their lives through inner balance and the discovery of their essence. I recommend this book for all those who want to feel more confident and secure in their daily lives through inner strength. Great book!
February 6, 2025
Great book.
It is pretty common that people have a lack of enthusiasm, constant fatigue, disinterest in growth, and emotional detachment in their jobs, which increase stress and anxiety and cause more physical health problems. If you are feeling like that, I would like to recommend this book. ''Inner Fire'' is a fantastic guide with valuable information about how to recover your career passion. I recognize that this book changed the way I was working and I am sure it will help you to rediscover your passion. Going to work won't be a hard time. It might be a not easy process but the result will change your life. This book is a must-read.
It is pretty common that people have a lack of enthusiasm, constant fatigue, disinterest in growth, and emotional detachment in their jobs, which increase stress and anxiety and cause more physical health problems. If you are feeling like that, I would like to recommend this book. ''Inner Fire'' is a fantastic guide with valuable information about how to recover your career passion. I recognize that this book changed the way I was working and I am sure it will help you to rediscover your passion. Going to work won't be a hard time. It might be a not easy process but the result will change your life. This book is a must-read.
February 6, 2025
I'm back to my corporate moments
Now that I am a pensioner I reflect on the amount of time, wear and tear and stress I put into my job. Well this book makes us see that there are ways to find a balance and ultimately not get lost in that complex world that consumes you day after day and not lose as they call it its internal vitality.
Exhaustion and burnout are the most common aspects I think for most workers and that is why this book represents a liberation, an excellent way to regain a little love for what we do and keep us balanced. I have immediately recommended it to my two children, as I don't want them to get to the point where they hate their work or have no time for family.
Now that I am a pensioner I reflect on the amount of time, wear and tear and stress I put into my job. Well this book makes us see that there are ways to find a balance and ultimately not get lost in that complex world that consumes you day after day and not lose as they call it its internal vitality.
Exhaustion and burnout are the most common aspects I think for most workers and that is why this book represents a liberation, an excellent way to regain a little love for what we do and keep us balanced. I have immediately recommended it to my two children, as I don't want them to get to the point where they hate their work or have no time for family.
February 7, 2025
Great book!
Reading this book was like a present for myself. Since the beginning of it, when Wolf expresses why she wrote this book, it called my attention and I couldn’t stop reading it.
She writes how to balance your personal life with your professional one so you don’t loose yourself in the middle of it. She does it through her personal experiences and lessons, which makes it easier to understand and feel related to every concept and chapter.
Reading this book helped me realize that I have to establish some limits in my daily life in order to maintain a healthy relationship with my job and do not fall into a burnout.
Reading this book was like a present for myself. Since the beginning of it, when Wolf expresses why she wrote this book, it called my attention and I couldn’t stop reading it.
She writes how to balance your personal life with your professional one so you don’t loose yourself in the middle of it. She does it through her personal experiences and lessons, which makes it easier to understand and feel related to every concept and chapter.
Reading this book helped me realize that I have to establish some limits in my daily life in order to maintain a healthy relationship with my job and do not fall into a burnout.
February 7, 2025
I came to this reading unintentionally and I found it wonderful how it really changed my life and my mentality. It is a book that although it speaks from a context of professional growth, it focuses much more on the person and how to protect your inner life in the face of all the challenges we face every day in the working world. Something that I find very interesting is how the author manages to mix her personal story with learnings from other spiritual guides to clarify various aspects of your personal life to take you to that place you want balance and also build that confidence and autonomy that will lead you to form better relationships and bonds.
March 17, 2025
The best way to reconnect
This author, through this fantastic work, has grounded me a lot about my work and what I really want and need from it and that is to enjoy it. I think that beyond the excellent tips that the book gives us to be able to become better, more efficient or proactive, the greatest message is to return or actually start loving your work. Because if you are not passionate about what you do, you will hardly be excellent. I think one of the key points that I take away is independence and self-confidence, sometimes you wait too long for others to decide before you can move forward.
This author, through this fantastic work, has grounded me a lot about my work and what I really want and need from it and that is to enjoy it. I think that beyond the excellent tips that the book gives us to be able to become better, more efficient or proactive, the greatest message is to return or actually start loving your work. Because if you are not passionate about what you do, you will hardly be excellent. I think one of the key points that I take away is independence and self-confidence, sometimes you wait too long for others to decide before you can move forward.
March 17, 2025
This is an amazing guide that came into my life at a moment when I needed it the most. I was having a lot of trouble in my corporate career, and I didn’t know how to get out of it. My coach recommended this book, mostly because the author has a lot of authority on the topic and uses different strategies to avoid burnout, such as defining personal values and vision, recovering self-confidence, and understanding how relationships are a key factor in this. This is an amazing resource for anyone looking to achieve personal and professional balance in their life.
March 19, 2025
Key book
I found this book very useful. On one hand, it is great for the new generation, helping them adopt the author’s recommendations and improve their well-being in the workplace. On the other hand, it is perfect for those who have been working for a while, as it helps them reinvent themselves and reprogram their mindset to feel passion again for what they do. In my opinion, this book focuses on promoting physical and mental well-being by encouraging a new work culture.
I found this book very useful. On one hand, it is great for the new generation, helping them adopt the author’s recommendations and improve their well-being in the workplace. On the other hand, it is perfect for those who have been working for a while, as it helps them reinvent themselves and reprogram their mindset to feel passion again for what they do. In my opinion, this book focuses on promoting physical and mental well-being by encouraging a new work culture.
March 20, 2025
are you going through burnout in the workplace, have you lost that inner gumption?
A book covering a life-changing concept, burnout. Not just a mental thing, not only emotional either, corporate burnout is pretty common. This book lays out the cause and consequences while helping a person hold on to what made them want to go corporate in the first place. This is a very good read and has the ability to change lives.
A book covering a life-changing concept, burnout. Not just a mental thing, not only emotional either, corporate burnout is pretty common. This book lays out the cause and consequences while helping a person hold on to what made them want to go corporate in the first place. This is a very good read and has the ability to change lives.
March 13, 2025
Inspiring
What a great book! It was my first reaction when I interacted with it. This book reminds all of its readers of the power that each of us have internally. It is a reminder that we must be aligned with our soul in order to become our best version. It is very inspiring and motivating.
What a great book! It was my first reaction when I interacted with it. This book reminds all of its readers of the power that each of us have internally. It is a reminder that we must be aligned with our soul in order to become our best version. It is very inspiring and motivating.
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March 14, 2025I received this one as part of a giveaway, & it bums me out that I didn't get it sooner.
I could have used some of the reminders in this book last year. But all in all, this was a good read.
I could have used some of the reminders in this book last year. But all in all, this was a good read.
March 13, 2025
Some good information here and some encouraging talk. But I guess it was still really on the side of “push more to grow your career” and I needed “so, you’re burned out? How to climb out and rediscover who you are.”
April 20, 2025
Easy to read book that leaves you will bullet points to take away and reflect on. This book had me reflecting on my own life and work boundaries, making me acknowledge where I have some growth to do.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews