Dusting Off Thunderbolts: a quest for the heart of leadership

Dusting Off Thunderbolts is a book about leadership that shares wisdom gleaned from diverse cultures and continents, featuring insights from giants of sport, literature, art, film, and music, as well as poets, philosophers, war heroes, and Nobel prize-winners. It encourages leaders to work tirelessly at their craft and travel the tough road of hard practice, dedication, and quiet heroism, and champions those who take risks but give themselves permission to fail. It is a celebration of the leadership spirit within all of us.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 184 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2023
Publisher: John Catt Educational Ltd

Dusting Off Thunderbolts is a book that goes beyond simply providing guidance on becoming a good leader. Author Sir John Jones, who has extensively traveled to 50 countries in search of the essence of leadership, shares invaluable insights drawn from diverse cultures and continents. The book features a captivating array of speakers, including renowned figures from the world of sport, literature, art, film, and music, as well as poets, philosophers, war heroes, and Nobel prize-winners. Through their inspiring words, Sir John guides readers on a journey to uncover the external forces that ignite the inner spirit of leadership. The ancients referred to these forces as muses, akin to old friends who have sustained Sir John throughout his more than 40 years of leadership. Muses favor those who are courageous enough to dedicate themselves tirelessly to their craft and embark on the challenging path of hard practice, dedication, and quiet heroism. Regrettably, some leaders deny the existence of these muses, believing that they alone are the sole determinants of their success. In such cases, the gods will unleash their thunderbolts upon them.

Dusting Off Thunderbolts is a rich source of practical ideas, captivating stories, and insightful suggestions. It will evoke a range of emotions, from laughter to tears, and encourage readers to reflect and grow. The book serves as an affirmation of leaders who lead with deep humanity, recognizing the importance of empathy and compassion in their leadership approach. It serves as a clarion call to those who view themselves as a continuous work in progress, constantly striving to improve and evolve. It champions individuals who take risks but grant themselves the permission to fail, recognizing that failure is a valuable learning experience. The book provides a companion for those who have the courage to stand at the front, embracing their own vulnerability, and leading with authenticity. It celebrates the leadership spirit that resides within each individual, acknowledging that we all possess the potential to make a positive impact in our respective roles.

However, it is important to note that neither the gods nor their muses can fulfill their work without the active participation and contribution of human beings. Our failings, flaws, and fears are integral to our journey of growth and development. By embracing these aspects of ourselves, we can unlock our full potential and make a meaningful impact in the world. Dusting Off Thunderbolts serves as a reminder that leadership is not just about achieving success or power, but about serving others and making a positive difference in the lives of those around us. It encourages readers to embrace their unique strengths and weaknesses, and to use them as stepping stones toward becoming the best leaders they can be.

Weight: 246g
Dimension: 147 x 209 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781398387508