As I work with leaders a simple question comes to mind,

“When was the last time you picked up The Advantage and read it cover-to-cover?”

Why this question? I think it’s easy to get distracted, fall back into old habits, or just make things too complicated. I’ve seen these patterns at different levels across all the leaders I serve. If it was ever worth picking up the first time, it’s likely worth reading again. For many, it might seem like the first time (how much does anyone remember from a book they read 1 year ago? 2 years ago? 5 years ago etc?). The first time it was likely theoretical. If you’ve taken a stab at mastering these disciplines the next read will be even more challenging as you think about all the examples and stories you’ve experienced. And you might also see things you missed the last time around.

Here’s an example of what you might have missed the last time you read it. Ever wonder why Pat calls it “The Advantage.” It’s short for The (Competitive) Advantage. It’s not touchy feely! It’s not about building a team so we feel better about ourselves. Healthy organizations achieve their goals, beat their competitors, and win! We want to name competitors and competitive forces at play. We want our entire team to know and understand our competitive differentiators in our market or space. Most other leaders and counterparts across the world are not reading The Advantage, talking about their blind spots, or considering how Org Health can give them the edge.

During the month of June I’m going to re-read The Advantage cover-to-cover. I invite you and any of your teammates to do the same. While I read I’ll take time to compile notes, quotes, etc. I’d encourage you to do the same. 

I’m not propo you  just rifle through the text. Think about it. Reflect on it. Write in it. Dog ear pages. Debate it in your own head. I’d honestly rather you read part of it fully than all of it quickly. Pat has always respected the intellect of the smart leaders we work with. It’s provocation, not prescription. These are ideas to make you think and figure out the best ways to lead.

Starting the week of July I’ll share my top 10 insights in coaching conversations and webinars throughout the rest of the summer. These might focus on recent case studies, blind spots I’ve seen in leaders, great reminders, or just practical applications that we might not be leveraging. All of this has to be applied specifically to each culture and organization in its place along its life cycle. 

You can see more details here and sign up for follow up webinars l. 

I look forward to collaborating with you to find and fully leverage your Advantage. 

Best,

Gordon