“Breaking the Chokehold: 7 Simple Steps to Bust Into the Life and Business You Love is a blueprint for leaving the workaday world behind and going out on your own. Author Doug Howorko based his book on his own experience. He worked a corporate job and was well paid, but dissatisfied. He described himself as “depressed, angry, and frustrated because I knew I could experience more” and says that many of his readers are in the same situation and, like him, want to transform their lives. Howorko first lists the three “chokeholds” that may be keeping people from making a change. Then he discusses the seven steps for breaking out of those chokeholds and starting your own business. Chapters end with a “call to action,” which are specific steps readers can take, such as writing down four reasons you want to change your life. These calls to action also direct users to other useful resources. Breaking the Chokehold is not a step-by-step manual to start any particular business. Author Doug Howorko doesn’t write, “To go into the house-flipping business (or any other type of self-employment) you must . . .” Rather, the book is a series of inspirational, yet practical axioms to encourage readers to decide what their financial dreams are and implement them. Howorko interlaces his book with adages from successful people as diverse as football coach Vince Lombardi and minister Norman Vincent Peale. Howorko’s obvious enthusiasm and the maxims from others inspired me. One particular sentence that stood out to me was “The amount of money you make is the direct result of the amount of value you provide to others.” Those are wise words. Anyone who’s unhappy with their financial position and/or would like to start their own business would do well to read Howorko’s book. But to get the most out of this book, don’t merely read it. Experience it. Follow Howorko’s suggestions for reaching your dreams.”
