The Matter Model: How Great Leaders Build Belonging, Strengthen Purpose and Drive Engagement at Work

Disengagement, presenteeism and quiet quitting are draining energy from workplaces everywhere. Leaders feel the pressure, but traditional fixes barely scratch the surface. Built on timeless and fundamental human needs, this book’s groundbreaking leadership framework empowers managers to create connected, engaged and high-performing teams by addressing the core human needs of belonging and purpose. The book challenges the myth that belonging is a soft concept and purpose a strategic one, showing that both are essential for teams to thrive. Through the four zones of The Matter Model, leaders will learn to:Diagnose disengagement before it costs you talent and performance. Escape the traps of transactional or drifting cultures. Unlock clarity, energy and trust through everyday leadership actions. Build rituals that embed belonging and purpose into the rhythm of work. With relatable stories, practical tools and reflection guides, this book will help to cultivate environments where people feel valued, work feels purposeful and performance flows naturally. Ideal for new managers, team leaders and corporate professionals across industries, this resource is designed for those seeking to simplify leadership while achieving impactful results. It is also a valuable tool for learning and development specialists looking to enhance leadership training programmes.

• Publication date: 25 September 2026
• Page count: 164
• Dimensions: Height 229 mm; Width 152 mm
• Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd
• Format: Hardback
• ISBN-13: 9781041339083