Developing Character

This book focuses on the element of leadership that has largely been neglected in the literature: character. Often thought to be a subjective construct, the book demonstrates the concrete behaviors associated with different character dimensions in order to illustrate how these behaviors can be developed, and character strengthened. Based on research involving over 300 senior leaders from different industries, sectors and countries, Crossan, Seijts, and Gandz developed a model for leadership character that focuses on eleven dimensions. The book begins by setting the context for the focus on character in business, asking what character is and whether it can be learned, developed, molded or changed. Next, the book focuses on each dimension of leadership character in turn, exploring its elements and the ways in which it can be applied in a business setting. The book concludes with a summary of the key insights, an exploration of the interactions between the character dimensions, and a call to the reader to reflect on how to develop one’s own and others’ leadership character. Bridging theory and management practice, Developing Leadership Character will interest students and practitioners alike. Readers will benefit not only from a new, robust theoretical framework for leadership character, but will also learn how character can be developed further.

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Building a Character is one of the three volumes that make up Stanislavski’s The Acting Trilogy. An Actor Prepares explores the inner preparation an actor must undergo in order to explore a role to the full. In this volume, Sir John Gielgud said, this great director “found time to explain a thousand things that have always troubled actors and fascinated students.” Building a Character discusses the external techniques of acting: the use of the body, movement, diction, singing, expression, and control. Creating a Role describes the preparation that precedes actual performance, with extensive discussions of Gogol’s The Inspector General and Shakespeare’s Othello. Sir Paul Scofield called Creating a Role “immeasurably important” for the actor. These three volumes belong on any actor’s short shelf of essential books.

In this instant New York Times bestseller, Angela Duckworth shows anyone striving to succeed that the secret to outstanding achievement is not talent, but a special blend of passion and persistence she calls “grit.” “Inspiration for non-geniuses everywhere” (People). The daughter of a scientist who frequently noted her lack of “genius,” Angela Duckworth is now a celebrated researcher and professor. It was her early eye-opening stints in teaching, business consulting, and neuroscience that led to her hypothesis about what really drives success: not genius, but a unique combination of passion and long-term perseverance. In Grit, she takes us into the field to visit cadets struggling through their first days at West Point, teachers working in some of the toughest schools, and young finalists in the National Spelling Bee. She also mines fascinating insights from history and shows what can be gleaned from modern experiments in peak performance. Finally, she shares what she’s learned from interviewing dozens of high achievers—from JP Morgan CEO Jamie Dimon to New Yorker cartoon editor Bob Mankoff to Seattle Seahawks Coach Pete Carroll. “Duckworth’s ideas about the cultivation of tenacity have clearly changed some lives for the better” (The New York Times Book Review). Among Grit’s most valuable insights: any effort you make ultimately counts twice toward your goal; grit can be learned, regardless of IQ or circumstances; when it comes to child-rearing, neither a warm embrace nor high standards will work by themselves; how to trigger lifelong interest; the magic of the Hard Thing Rule; and so much more. Winningly personal, insightful, and even life-changing, Grit is a book about what goes through your head when you fall down, and how that—not talent or luck—makes all the difference. This is “a fascinating tour of the psychological research on success” (The Wall Street Journal).

The Character-Based Leader is a must-read for anyone who realizes that leading from who you are (rather than your title) is the key to longevity and satisfaction in any leadership role. This well-written, easy read will leave you feeling inspired and ready to take ACTION! Marshall Goldsmith, recognized as the Thinkers 50 most-influential leadership thinker in the world, and author of the New York Times bestsellers MOJO and What Got You Here Won't Get You There A rich and comprehensive collection of compelling perspectives on the importance of character in the leadership equation. A very worthy read. Douglas R. Conant, Retired President and CEO, Campbell Soup Company, and author of the NY Times Bestseller TouchPoints What do you get when 21 deep-thinking leaders share their thoughts on Character-Based Leadership with the world? You get a book filled with actionable advice that can change the world one person at a time. Buy it. Read it. It will change how you see your leadership. It will change how you live your life. Liz Strauss, International Business Strategist, Author of Successful-Blog The Lead Change Group has hit it out of the park! The Character-Based Leader distills timeless lessons of virtuous, effective living-and applies them seamlessly to the daily demands and spectacular opportunities of the 21st century. Put this wonderful book to use today, transforming your life and work into a masterpiece of service. James Strock, businessman, speaker, citizen servant, and author of the award-winning business bestseller Serve to Lead The Lead Change Group is a nonprofit global community dedicated to instigating a leadership revolution that encourages, energizes and equips people to apply character-based leadership to lead change. Learn more at http: //leadchangegroup.com

Through biblical scripture, God gives us the principles that we need in order to fulfill his plan for our lives. As believers in Christ, the bible tells us that we will suffer and experience trials and tribulations. Jesus himself endured the greatest suffering on the cross for our sins. It is a fact that life will produce storms, hardships and obstacles during your walk with Christ. Your faith in him will be tested during these times and it will either draw you closer to him or away from him. Adversity allows you to develop spiritually and mentally as a person, these times can actually help you to uncover what your true passion is in life. 1 Peter Chapter 4:13 - But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. Arthur Robinson has served as Corporate Director of Training and Development for one of the nations largest automotive groups. He is recognized as an industry leader for his high impact seminars of training and motivation along with the ability to manage over 600 sales professionals. While experiencing his own trials, sufferings and difficulties in life, Arthur has learned to rely solely on the power of God and his word, to help him overcome the battles of life. This book has insights on helping you to achieve your destiny through the body of Christ. Proverbs: Chapter 3: 5-6 - Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

This story has been written to identify who these people were in their life in badlands and on the plains of Eastern Montana by providing a cameo of their daily life. It proposes a study of the factors that led to the development of character and at the same time developing characters. The method of this analysis uses simple stories of incidents common to those who endured the hardships and challenges of that sometimes-austere environment. Who are these people and how did they get to be the way they are. This book was written for the purpose of encouraging others to write their own stories that can be shared with their family and the generations to follow as they travel along lifes way. Sadly, history not documented is history lost. Every person is important. Every person has value. Every person has a story to tell. Let the pages of this book provide a springboard to the documentation of countless stories of precious lives not only on the prairie but also in the city and elsewhere. It is hoped that by the sharing of these Eastern Montana personal stories that they may spur interest in Eastern Montana towns and villages to encourage development of tourism, industry, and its history, talents and art. Perhaps this book will be instrumental in helping others who feel downtrodden to take a second look at their life, enter the battle and approach their obstacles with a tenacious can do attitude. Of course, some will read the book just for the sometimes-foolish stories of the portrayal of farm-ranch life and let it go at that. But to the serious reader, it is hoped they will analyze well beyond what is written because that is what eventually creates your character also. Realizing that it is OK to become a character while developing your own character.

As a businessman, one of author Bryan McMahon’s goals was to facilitate the development of those people who worked for him, inspiring the youth of the world to stand up and be counted every time a challenge or opportunity appeared. In Developing Character and Career, McMahon offers a training manual for businesspeople and leaders to help them become more effective. Based on McMahon’s personal experiences, he offers a plethora of concepts, ideas, and disciplines, including the importance of: • Identifying people who are potential mentors; • clearly defining personality, strengths, and weaknesses; • aspiring to roles or functions that suit your strengths and personality; • assembling all possible facts and information before making decisions; • avoiding decisions based solely on emotions; • exercising independence when necessary; • identifying your career path; • learning to manage money early in life; • creating a plan with objectives for the next ten years; • taking advantage of big opportunities; • looking after your body. Through examples and stories of his business dealings in London, Nigeria, Ghana, Bangladesh, Ethiopia, and others, Developing Character and Career communicates that anything is possible if you have the desire and commitment to succeed.