Presale for Don’t Kill the Joy
The book that asks the question
“What would it look like if we actually had fun at work?“
Releasing October 2025
About My Book,
Dont Kill The Joy
At a time when burnout is at an all-time high and workplace engagement remains low, "Don’t Kill the Joy" offers a compelling call to reimagine the workplace as a source of energy, meaning, and joy, rather than just a place for productivity and performance.
Structured into three parts, the book begins by examining the systemic and cultural dynamics that have led many organizations to become joyless and disconnected spaces. It explores the rise of hustle culture and the blurring of the line between home and work life.
Part two pivots toward action, offering individuals and leaders the opportunity to redesign work environments with intention and empathy.
Finally, in Part Three, we explore creating a legacy of joy as we look to the future. Don’t Kill the Joy is a book that challenges readers to think beyond short-term interventions and toward long-term sustainable environments where people find not only psychological safety but also purpose, connection, and fulfillment. It invites everyone who works for or leads an organization to become legacy builders and help create joyful workspaces.
Written with warmth and insights, Don’t Kill the Joy is a guidebook for those who believe work can and should be a source of well-being. It is for anyone who thinks that work is more than a place for results and wants to leave a legacy of joyful impact.
-
Ebook
You’ll receive a digital copy of my book as soon as it’s published. You’ll also be invited to join my Author Community, where you’ll preview early drafts, read the introduction ahead of launch, and help choose the final cover design and style.
-
Ticket to Event + 1 Signed Copy
You will receive a Ticket to my Book Launch Event and receive a Signed Paperback edition of my book. You'll also be invited to join my Author Community, where you'll get early access to my Introduction, help me select my cover, and be with me throughout my journey. Your name will appear in the Acknowledgments section of my book.
-
Signed Copy
Signed Paperback edition of my book. You'll also be invited to join my Author Community, where you'll get early access to my Introduction, help me select my cover, and be with me throughout my journey. Your name will appear in the Acknowledgments section of my book.
About the Author
Maria I. Carlton was born in Havana, Cuba, amid the Cuban revolution and moved to the United States as a child to begin a new chapter with her family. A passionate lifelong learner, Maria obtained a degree in Information Systems followed by a Master of Science in Healthcare Administration (MSHA). With more than 40 years of experience in the healthcare and people sectors, she is a certified Human Resources Professional, entrepreneur, and executive coach committed to fostering leadership development and driving organizational growth.
From a young age, Maria has been driven by her curiosity and a deep passion for discovering new people, places, and ideas. With a strong foundation in family values, she embraces the lessons of resilience and joy gained from both her leadership experiences and her loved ones, consistently striving to find purpose in all her personal and professional pursuits.
