Reviewed by Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite

Unbox Yourself: Escape The Rat Race, Find More Happiness and Fulfill Your Purpose is a nonfiction self-help book written by Christian W. Hahn. Hahn is one of the less than 300 AACD-accredited cosmetic dentists worldwide, and his clients are more than happy having a dentist who cares about more than simply drilling and filling their teeth. Becoming a dentist seemed something he was destined to be. His dad was a dentist, and his practice was a successful one. So, while a high school aptitude test pointed out architecture as a possible career choice, Hahn studied hard, got the grades necessary for admission into a first-class Dental School and proceeded on his way into a career in dentistry. His certainty of a happy and successful future was placed in some doubt, however, during a wedding ceremony where he had the opportunity to interact with some of the leading professionals in his field. He was stunned to discover that they were not happy. These eminent and successful dentists all seemed stressed and dissatisfied with their lives, and some had health issues relating to their discontent. Hahn realized then and there that he did not want to end up like them further down the road.

In Unbox Yourself, Hahn shares the steps he took to discover what he really wanted to do with his life, to answer the question of why he was here on this planet, and to find out what his real purpose was. He began to consider the choices that were arrayed in front of him in his search for a rich and fulfilling life. He discusses the youthful visions most have of their adult lives and how so many of those dreams yield to sensible career paths, often on the advice of grownups. What if kids were able to continue working towards those lofty dreams instead of being ushered into a sensible career box where they may very well end up living half-lives until they retire? Hahn’s book reveals his insights into the unboxing process for people at any stage of their lives.

Christian W. Hahn shares his own views on the supposed mid-life crisis and gives the reader concrete and helpful ways to make their own awakening, or unboxing, a positive and life-affirming change. Hahn discusses his own life story with the reader and uses his experiences to help readers understand his message -- and he does so quite well. I soon felt as though I were being counseled by a mentor and a friend as I read this inspiring and thought-provoking work. I was particularly moved by his imagery of a fish being taught to climb a tree as he questions the time-honored practice of young people being steered into steady professions by well-meaning parents and caregivers. Hahn’s conviction that we all shine when we are doing what we’re meant to do is a marvelous takeaway, and his book clearly shows how to find those niches and make a go of it. Unbox Yourself: Escape The Rat Race, Find More Happiness and Fulfill Your Purpose is most highly recommended.