Another recent Summer book I've enjoyed is Playing With Fire, by Gordon Ramsey. I expected it to be an autobiography of the chef's journey from kitchen to TV, but was instead treated to Gordon's off the cuff (and uncensored) advice on running (and growing) a successful business.

I have tremendous respect for Mr Ramsey; I've enjoyed his TV series Hell's Kitchen, F-Word, and Kitchen Nightmares very much. At first I found him loud, abrassive and cocky, but now I consider him a man with little patience for fools or folk who don't give their all to a given task.

The concept of achieving success through hard work and passion makes sense to me logically; finding one's 'passion' is an incredible challenge, and after 40 years, I'm still on the periphery of mine. My meandering career path has always been based on circumstances that colored my choices; I wouldn't change a thing given a second chance, since I find myself incredibly fortunate to be exactly where I am. I may be a simple freelance artist toiling for low wages, but I wake up daily ready to tackle whatever is on my drawing table.

That being said, I have the strong feeling that I'll be able to elevate my career 'success' to a new level once I determine my true passion.

I'm looking forward to musing on that particular subject in my 'free' time!