Wayne Dyer’s latest offering, The Shift, discusses the lifelong passage from Ambition to Meaning. Rather, a key phrase of his is “From Ambition to Meaning”, of which each word headlines the four chapters in this concise yet thorough piece. Dr. Dyer explains our innocent beginning in the “From”, moves us through Ego-driven “Ambition”, illustrates the fundamental change that takes place in the “to” phase of our lives, and ends with our Higher Self’s “Meaning”.

Dr. Dyer successfully packs a wonderful explanation of this journey into a quick 119 pages, which are easily read over the span of a few days, even if you are unfamiliar with most of his work. The Shift has high re-read value, as something can be taken from the work each and every time. His explanation of the Ego portion of our lives, which he explains as “Edge God Out”, will strike to the very core anyone at that point in their life. I have recently begun to feel the pull of the “To” phase of my life, questioning why I am driven toward physical goals such as wealth, possessions and material goods, when nothing on this Earth is permanent. Dr. Dyer’s thoughts on values and moving into “Purpose” are his own, but have been echoed through time by many figures, including Buddha, Jesus, Lao-tzu, Shakespeare, Einstein and even Dr. Seuss.

This book shares its name with a movie that Dr. Dyer had put out in 2009. The movie is referenced, but not rehashed. This book acts as a great companion to the movie; both can stand alone, but serve as good aides to each other. I was asked to review this book by Hay House Publishing, and was sent a copy free in the mail. Previously I had watched the movie, and was pleasantly surprised when this compact little work of art made it to my door. It is wonderful realizing that I am moving toward the “Meaning” portion of my life, yet I realize that the journey is the most amazing part. Dr. Dyer’s gift of writing must truly be read to be believed, and even though The Shift isn’t his standard fare, it is truly marvelous.