Recently I was asked to read a new book by Gary Harpst, titled Six Disciplines for Excellence: Building Small Businesses That Learn, Lead and Last. But before I comment on the book, I probably ought to provide a brief overview of my background for those unfamiliar with my work so that people realize why I believe this book is important.

I’ve been consulting on management and leadership issues for more than 18 years, working with the entire spectrum of business—from small regional concerns to companies in the Fortune 500.  Much of my work has been with leadership and management teams, enhancing and refining their thinking processes and tools to move them from surviving to thriving. Over the years I honed my programs to provide the best and most essential components. After working with hundreds of businesses, I’ve seen, heard, and read a lot.

So with that background, Six Disciplines for Excellence has my full and complete endorsement. It’s probably the best book I’ve come across for building a sound and thriving business.

I’m very glad I was asked to read it–it’s awesome. Everyone in leadership should read it.

But don’t just stop at reading it. This book is 20% principles and 80% “how-to.” It just screams practical. And for that reason, it would be great if the “how-to” sections became action items on meeting agendas.  Even better: locating a top-notch consultant/facilitator to help stay on track re: following through on the action-items.

Here’s why: Reading a book and then following through on the action steps are two different things!

Perhaps it’s best to consider Six Disciplines a workbook (and it’s probably the best business-building workbook I’ve seen). In my opinion, many larger organizations would benefit from reading it, too. It’s not only easy to read, it outlines of the key steps for success that I taught for years in my management development programs—and more—all in a very well-organized fashion.

Read it and you’ll be enlightened.
Do what it says and you’ll be moving your business from “surviving” to “thriving.”

Hats off to Mr. Harpst for penning an excellent book.

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Filed in Work, Business, Opinion, Motivation, Management, Leadership, Teambuilding, Workplace, Meetings