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That's Not How We Do It Here - John Kotter and Holger Rathgeber

 

If I was asked I'd say That's Not How We Do Things Here is about challenging the status quo.

In this book, authors John Kotter and Holger Rathgeber examine the dynamics of change and innovation within organisations. Through a captivating story, they illustrate the challenges and opportunities that arise when organisations strive to adapt to an ever-evolving world.

The book is centred around the tale of a community of meerkats facing a crisis. As their environment changes, the meerkats must learn to balance maintaining their successful culture with the need to innovate and adapt. This narrative serves as an engaging and relatable analogy for businesses navigating similar challenges.

Kotter and Rathgeber skillfully blend storytelling with practical insights, making complex concepts easy to understand. Through the meerkats' story, the authors demonstrate how organisations can become too rigid in their ways, stifling creativity and growth. At the same time, they highlight the importance of retaining a strong culture while being open to new ideas and ways of working.

The book's key message is that successful organisations need to find a balance between tradition and change. The authors provide actionable advice on how to achieve this balance, such as fostering a culture of learning and encouraging open-mindedness. They also offer strategies for leaders to guide their teams through transitions and cultivate a climate of collaboration and innovation.

One of the book's strengths is its use of relatable characters and situations to illustrate important lessons. This approach helps readers see how the concepts can be applied in real-life settings. The book serves as a valuable guide for leaders and teams looking to navigate change effectively.

My personal takeaway from the book is that change is the one constant factor in our lives. This realisation underscores the importance of embracing change and being adaptable in both personal and professional settings.

That's Not How We Do Things Here is an insightful and engaging read for anyone interested in personal development, organisational development and change management. It offers practical advice and fresh perspectives on how to foster a culture that embraces innovation while respecting tradition. Whether you're a leader or a team member, this book provides valuable lessons that can help you thrive in a changing environment.

As always, I leave you with a book related quote: A book a day helps you navigate change in a very way.

Change is always imminent. The sooner you learn to embrace when it happens, the better for you and those around you.

Be ignited. Be inspired. Be influenced. Read your way to becoming the best version of yourself you can ever be.

 

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