Navigating Polarities: Using Both/And Thinking to Lead Transformation

Product Description

How do you do two seemingly opposite things at once? How can you be candid and diplomatic, provide structure and flexibility, keep things stable and lead change, and focus on organizational interests while simultaneously doing what’s best for employees? Many approach these polarities with either/or thinking, but leaders, teams, and organizations that navigate them using a both/and mindset significantly outperform those who don’t. The trick is knowing how.In their work with thousands of people across the globe, Brian Emerson and Kelly Lewis have seen the tension and stress polarities can create in relationships, teams, and in organizations. In this book, they share the practical tools to transform that tension into a positive driving force by expanding either/or thinking to include a both/and mindset.

Review

“Learning how to navigate polarities is a key skill when dealing with complexity. Emerson and Lewis have written a nuanced and approachable book that will leave you not only wiser, but more useful whether you’re leading a team, a project, an organization, or a family. I only wish a copy were offered to all leaders!” – 
Jennifer Garvey Berger, Author of Unlocking Leadership Mindtraps and Changing on the Job

“Kelly and Brian bring a rich combination of head and heart to the world of interdependent pairs and carry on the tradition of improving our quality of life by supplementing either/or with both/and. This book provides a practical and immediately useful understanding of polarities, how they work and how to make the most of them.” – 
Barry Johnson, creator of the Polarity Map®, author of Polarity Management

“Brian and Kelly have found simplicity on the other side of complexity–few can explain polarities in a way that is so understandable and practical. This book provides very real ways to use both/and thinking to transform your organization, team, and life.” – 
Kerstin Hess, Director Global Risk Management, Porsche

“If you’ve ever struggled with complexity, this is the book you’ve been waiting for.  Whether you’re new to polarities or well versed in how to navigate them, this will be your go-to resource for leading transformation.” – 
Kate Ebner, Founder, Institute of Transformational Leadership, Georgetown University

“Emerson and Lewis have demystified polarities and provide simple tools to constructively work with the dynamics they create. I would consider this required reading for anyone leading organizations in our complex world.”  – 
Christopher Baer, VP Talent Innovation, Marriott International