The Paris Paradox: Embracing French Ideals of Leisure to Transform American Work-Life Balance

by Shemin Nurmohamed

Overview

In The Paris Paradox, executive Shemin Nurmohamed reveals how French attitudes toward work, leisure, and life can transform our approach to success. Drawing from her nearly two decades living in France while building a career and raising a family, she offers a refreshing alternative to America's burnout culture.

This book provides practical wisdom on how to create more balance without sacrificing ambition: take proper vacations that rejuvenate rather than exhaust, develop deep expertise through patience rather than constant promotion-seeking, build meaningful community in a disconnected world, and find contentment in everyday moments.

Through compelling stories and actionable advice, Nurmohamed demonstrates that the French approach—putting life before work, quality before quantity, and relationships before achievements—can lead to greater fulfillment and paradoxically, more meaningful success. Discover how incorporating these principles can create a more joyful, sustainable way to live and work, no matter where you are.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9798887506272
Publisher:	Forbes Books
Publication date:	09/23/2025
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	192
File size:	2 MB

About the Author

SHEMIN NURMOHAMED is executive vice president and president of sending technology solutions at Pitney Bowes. Prior to this role, she held CFO, director, and VP roles at local, EMEA, and Global levels at several Fortune 500 companies. Born in Tanzania to immigrant parents and educated at Cornell University, Shemin spent nearly two decades living and working in France, where she discovered a profoundly different approach to balancing life and work, and brings a unique cross-cultural perspective to questions of work, family, and finding contentment. She shares these insights regularly as a speaker across the US, Europe, and the Middle East. Shemin lives with her husband and two children in Connecticut.

What People are Saying About This

From the Publisher

“I had every intention of skimming through this book, hunting for quick business takeaways. But after the first page I literally slowed down and savored Shemin’s beautifully written prose, enjoying a taste of the French life—every bit as productive, yet so much more meaningful and enjoyable. Thank you, Shemin, for showing all of us how to take a beat, while still being our best selves at home and at work."
— Lance Rosenzweig
CEO, Pitney Bowes

“In an age of endless hustle, Shemin offers a refreshing perspective—blending the French art of living with the American dream. Through stories backed by experience and data, she proves that mastery at work demands a certain richness in life. As businesses chase innovation, The Paris Paradox shows that creativity isn't found in the glow of midnight screens but in the warmth of long lunches, vacations, and genuine human connections. A vital truth for our times—to lead better, we must first live better.”
— Pari Natarajan
CEO, Zinnov

“With The Paris Paradox, Shemin offers great insights and valuable strategies around lifestyle and mindset changes that will truly upgrade and change your life for the better. Her wise insights offer an essential and heartfelt guide to understanding, and implementing changes to truly live life to the fullest.

I am sincerely grateful for Shemin kindly sharing perspectives around life-work balance and having it all. A must-read!”
— Larry Long Jr.
Founder and CEO, LLJR Enterprises; Author of JOLT

“For years, I envied my European colleagues' work-life balance. Shemin delivers a step-by-step guide to making it a reality in America—practical, actionable, and long overdue.”
— Maria Weaver
Former Global President, Warner Music

“Shemin Nurmohamed skillfully blends a results-driven approach with a genuine passion for leadership, crafting a compelling strategy that emphasizes authenticity and understanding of the executive landscape. This insightful and engaging perspective strikes a perfect balance, offering practical advice on how to achieve personal and team success.”
— Laura Schwinn
Independent Director and Executive Advisor

“Nurmohamed gives us a road map for life work balance that applies to thousands. Bring a pencil when you open this book. You will want to make sure you highlight their lessons."
— Ana Chadwick
CFO, Insulet & World Traveler

“Kudos to Shemin for breaking down what once felt impossible—achieving real work-life (or life-work) balance. A must read for anyone craving more freedom and fulfillment.”
— Silvano Sansoni

"Shemin Nurmohamed has managed to capture the timeless wisdom of the French into a roadmap that will materially improve your work and home life. A must-read book filled with life-changing insights!"
— Rahim Hirji
Executive VP, Avallain