Are you working longer but getting further and further behind? You’re not alone. According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, Americans are working five hours more per week than they did in 2003. Almost half of all Americans earn less than $27,000 per year. At least three billion people worldwide are looking for jobs. Because Americans are earning less and saving less than in previous generations, nine out of ten people worry they are working as hard or even harder just to survive. Unfortunately, 'surviving' is the new standard of living. What’s the solution? In The Other 8 Hours, author and financial expert Robert Pagliarini guides readers through a step-by-step approach to designing a happier, healthier, and wealthier life.

How do you get ahead when you’re tired, depressed, or financially strapped? First, understand how you got into this cycle. Life consists of a job, family, relationships, physical health, personal growth, spirituality, and financial health. If you designate the day job as the first eight hours, sleeping as another eight, you have eight hours left. Those eight hours hold the power of change. What are you doing with them?

Pagliarini outlines a three-part plan in the book’s three main chapters: "Get More Time," "Get More Money," and "Get A Life."

Under "Get More Time," he suggests six steps: Taking Control of Your Time, Learning To Say No, Getting 9 Hours Out of 8, Chunking, Plugging in Positivity, and Using Technology. In the book’s activity form, determine what activities you do each day and how much time they take. For every activity, decide if you can postpone, eliminate, reduce, or keep it. Don’t wimp out on the task. Your life is in your hands. Will you die if you stop playing games on Facebook? Reduce useless or harmful activities, and you’ll free yourself to pursue your life’s dreams.

Use these eight hours to make your life healthier and happier by exercising and participating in meaningful life activities. Organize your time by using some of these technology tips: an RSS reader, which saves time by compiling your favorite websites in one place; two computer monitors to increase your viewing and thus, your productivity; and audiobooks to learn a new language or business technique. Learn the reasons that traditional financial advice does not work in today’s economy. Increase your income with a 'boost' job or by becoming a Cr8ator—a creative entrepreneur wanting more out of life.

Pagliarini writes with authority, humor, and the occasional bluntness of an honest friend. Each chapter includes inspirational anecdotes; clear steps; short quizzes and forms; and relevant resources. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and the numerous resource lists. This review only touches on a few of Pagliarini’s tips, which combine practical steps and progressive ideas. If you want to make serious changes in your life, but you don’t know how, The Other 8 Hours is your blueprint to a happy, healthy, and wealthy life. Highly recommended.