The Thoughtful Leader: A Model of Integrative Leadership by Jim Fisher

4 Stars

A leader is an idea personified in an individual.



Introductory approach to the art and science of leadership. From the title it's pretty obvious that it is a synergistic model that weaves other managerial structures together. While I have encountered many of these concepts through working in various fields and interacting on different levels, having it all in one place and methodically explained how the elements support each other is valuable. This is not an in-depth workbook; it is a strong overview.

The introduction lays out the author's background making a case for speaking from a place of authority. Excellent recommendations on other texts to read for more in-depth analysis. The constant personal interjections of phrases like "my" attempted to make it a more familial read, but it ended up detracting from the text and sounding like filler at points. 

All that said, the 9 box model is compelling.

MANAGING_______DIRECTING_______ENGAGING

PLAN-------------VISION-------------VALUES

ORGANIZE--------ALIGNMENT---------CLARITY

CONTROL--------MOTIVATION------INVOLVEMENT

Utilizing all nine strategies of this three-pronged approach tells, inspires and motivates. This integrated theory essentially synthesizes three historical leadership styles into one. Obviously, the evidence supporting this theory is anecdotal with personal stories of observations of success.

Vision is what makes the form desirable to fulfill its function. Function is critical to success and cannot be ignored.

Integrated leadership is an integrated workforce. Everyone needs to understand why they're rowing the ship, at what pace and direction to achieve success. 

Leaders who want to get things done have to manage.

Simply said, vision is not enough. Great ideas don't correlate into success and there's a reason the oldest model of management still has relevancy. (See first column)

Visions should be a stretch to a new and better place, but leaders as hardheaded managers need to know that useful visions cannot be impossible leaps.

Overall, a solid and worthwhile time investment to read even if it is a review. I will be utilizing the 9 box strategy.