Book Review – “The Art of Possibility”

The Art of Possibility – Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander 

It feels like so many books have similar themes that are warmed over for publication under a “new” title, so I must admit that cynicism tempers my enthusiasm to pick up some leadership books.“The Art of Possibility” has renewed my faith in the leadership/self-help genre.The book is authored by Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander; Roz is a family therapist and coach and Ben is conductor of the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra.This husband/wife team has blended their professions into a beautiful harmony between art and science, with wonderful lessons for readers.12 practices journey“The Art of Possibility” is a journey through 12 practices, focusing on the assumptions we carry with us and impose on the world around us.As the authors explain each of the 12 practices, their words of wisdom are interwoven with personal stories to beautifully illustrate each one, providing the reader with real-life application of each of the practices.The 12 practices build to a crescendo as the book progresses, with each practice having its own place in the melody. The practices include:·         It’s all invented — The infamous nine-dot puzzle reminds the reader that we are the ones who put restrictions on ourselves. ·         Giving an A — How would it look if, rather than beginning as a “C” student and needing to earn an “A”, we all began as “A” students and raised our expectations of ourselves to that level each day?·         Being a contribution — Live your life as someone who makes a difference.·         Leading from any chair — How much leadership are you wiling to grant to others in your organization? How can others help lead your organization to greatness?·         Rule Number 6, plain and simple — Don’t take yourself so seriously. There are no other rules.·         The way things are — Sometimes things just are as they are. The most beautiful thing about this book is its eloquent description of coaching principles that can be understood by anybody. I felt myself thinking “right on” in each chapter.Pick up this book and begin living your “Art of Possibility” now — you won’t regret it.

Small Business Marketing – A Parallel for Life

I recently attended a meeting of a local networking group.  The group was established a few months ago, and this was my first visit. 

The group was small – eight people including myself – and the topic was marketing.  What a perfect meeting to attend!  I was certain my 13+ years of media and marketing experience would come in handy!  As the meeting progressed, for me it evolved into a study on human behavior.

Several members had opinions and theories about how to market.  The ideas were great – many of which I was in support of.  The energy was coursing through the room – it was great to experience first-hand feedback from business owners on what works and what doesn’t.

As the meeting progressed, I realized we weren’t just talking about marketing but life in general. Two things that struck me:

1. We all have opinions on what other people should do, but aren’t as clear on what we should do.  Several business owners had marketing suggestions for others in the group, but mentioned that it is difficult for them to come up with marketing ideas for themselves. How does that translate into your life? Are you the first to provide direction to others, but aren’t clear about your own situation?
2. We don’t have a plan.  I only heard one business owner bring up setting a plan and sticking to it (he is a financial advisor, so I would expect nothing less). The others didn’t. How do you know where you’re going with out a plan? Goals?  Are you going through life without a plan/vision/goal?

The first thing I recommend to any client – marketing, coaching or other – is to have a plan.  Yes, plans evolve as life’s circumstances come our way.  But, without a plan, how do you know where you’re going – or if you’ve arrived?

And, kudos to my clients for working with a professional who can provide them with that outside perspective!  It’s hard to see clearly when you’re inside the glass.  Find somebody to help you – a coach, consultant or other professional – who will help you see things clearly.  You’ll be amazed at how far you can go.