Perhaps I should not have read the back cover of this book before reading its contents – strange that (on a book about decision-making) I was drawn to turn it over and read the back to decide whether or not to read it!
For me, I was a taken aback to read that Mr Adair has written 50 books, translated into 18 languages. Yet I had not heard of him, then I felt immediately ignorant!
So, I wondered about this review and thought – should the review help people make a decision or judgment on whether to read the book off the back of my appraisal? My decision was to write about what lasted with me most.
Be prepared for an array of references and examples throughout the text: to an extent that I really have not seen in a book before. They range from illustrations of philosophers or politicians’ decisions, to normal people who have made remarkable decisions. This is a comprehensive view of just how, as humans, we have developed our thinking and are able to use emotion and knowledge to make choices and assessments that allow great achievement.
In many books of this type, it seems important to give people 3 or 5 or 10 key steps to anything, delivering a simple, step-by-step process means anyone can do it, right? Of course. Adair, through his accessible, yet academic, writing style has the power to uncover some of that inner confidence that we can all have, that others seem to access so well. In his 10 steps, you will explore judgment as something that ties to your values and your gut, as well as how to open your mind to other views and alternatives, allowing confidence in trial and error.
You will also find some great tools like the ‘Lobster Pot’!!
This book is truly rich. It is treasure trove of knowledge with a very human foundation. We all face decisions that are impactful on our lives whether as a leader at work or in our personal lives. There is no need to resign yourself to not having good judgement. Its ok for us to be in a quandary or dilemma about what to do – decision making itself suggests we don’t have all the facts. You may need to invest more time/ thought perspective to make a better choice…
The underlying purity and humanity of his message is beautiful; philosophers seek truth, and we must look to seek truth in any decision making, if something does not seem right we have the power to decide to get more information, seek out new avenues and pathways that will feel more.
A must read for anyone, leaders or not; I have decided!
Published by Bloomsbury
