At the core of exceptional leadership is the ability to lead self. Some level of proficiency can be demonstrated by simply focusing on leading others. But to achieve transformational results, leading self is essential. Cultivating self-awareness and developing a life plan are key elements of leading self. And really, should not leaders demonstrate a level of self-mastery before leading others? t is time that leaders move to a deeper understanding of themselves as they operate within a world of accelerated change and increasing complexity. Although leadership performance is evidenced in outward results, decisions, and actions, the genesis of the leadership performance is an internal endeavor. Resiliency and ethical behavior are grounded by having a strong sense of purpose, established vision, and clear operating values. To the degree that the leader is consciously leading self, the quality of his or her leadership corresponds. Be it for good or evil, conscious leadership is powerful. This book makes plain the case for enhanced self-awareness, provides case studies and research support, presents the voices of several master leadership coaches, and most importantly ... leads the reader through the life planning process.

One subject that is receiving a lot of attention is organizational change. Whether it is reinventing government, reengineering corporations, or reforming churches, all kinds of organizations are attempting major transformations. Th e pace of organizational change projects is perhaps only overshadowed by the number of books on the subject of organizational change. One only has to scan the business section of any local bookstore to see that there are numerous titles on the subject of organizational change. While each book may be interesting, the books often do not build on each other and sometimes develop contradictory ideas and concepts. Th is book will walk you through the fi ve ingredients of transformation. Vision: Where are you going? Leadership: How are you leading the eff ort, and do you have the skills? Technical Plan: How will you close the gap between the vision and your current situation? Social Plan: How will you enroll others that might be supportive or not supportive of your plan? Burning Platform: Why should you do anything? At the end of reading this book, you will understand why change eff orts fail, what ingredients are needed to ensure success, and what skills are needed at the organizational, group, and individual levels to maximize improvement eff orts.