Book Review – “The Art of Possibility”
Posted by danajanelle on February 28, 2008
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.
