cover image Grounded: How Leaders Stay Rooted in an Uncertain World

Grounded: How Leaders Stay Rooted in an Uncertain World

Bob Rosen and The Healthy Companies Team. Jossey-Bass, $27.95 (342p) ISBN 978-1-118-68087-2

"Leaders who are truly healthy in all senses of the word," writes Healthy Companies CEO Rosen, "are evolved human beings." In his insightful new book, Rosen (Leading People) begins by delineating the attributes of an "evolved human being," and how they shape a leader. In the second half, where his true challenge lies, the author defines who a person is by focusing on several types of health: spiritual, physical, emotional, intellectual, social, and vocational. Drawing from science and biographical information, as well as examples from great leaders such as Steve Jobs, he concludes that at root, great leaders are also great people, suggesting that we consider their lifestyles and not only their achievements. Unfortunately, the effort is too ambitious, with many of the suggestions and advice better suited for a book whose focus is specific to each area it delves into. Otherwise, this turn towards a more holistic approach in leadership is welcome and should find an audience in those looking to excel and not just succeed. (Nov.)