Leading with Soul

LEADING WITH SOUL

Since the first edition of Leading with Soul was published in 1995, its inspiring message has become even more urgent and timely in a world horrified by the events of 9/11, enraged by the hubris of business hotshots who triggered a world-wide economic crisis, and infuriated by limp, misguided responses to floods, oil spills, and nuclear catastrophes. Now more than ever we need courageous leaders with soul.

Leading with Soul invites world-weary managers on a journey in search of one's personal path to leadership and offers hope for reconnecting work and spirit. In this new and thoroughly revised edition of their classic work, Lee Bolman and Terrence Deal update a timeless spiritual message in the light of the turmoil of recent years as well as adding new insights from the literature of spirituality and work. As the authors explain, "Soul is personal and unique, grounded in the depths of individual experience. Spirit is transcendent and all embracing. It is the universal source, the oneness of all things."

At the heart of the book is the compelling story of a dispirited executive on his quest to find something deeper than rational plans and a focus on the bottom line. His story points the way to more rewarding work and more vibrant and spirited organizations. Bolman and Deal use this engaging parable to show how we can develop a life and livelihood that center on meaning, purpose, joy, and a sense of contribution to the greater community. By embarking on a new path, we can transform our lives and livelihoods to become truly enriched and spiritually fulfilled.