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A Global Icon
Edward de Bono: Love Laterally is a biography that paints a vivid and layered portrait of the man who coined and championed the concept of lateral thinking. What inspired you to tell Edward de Bono’s story?
It is a zeitgeist story. It was a timely and important story to tell. We need to teach our children how to think not what to think in schools – and this book explains why and how. It’s more than a biography. Edward de Bono led the world of thinking for over half a century, encouraging people to think about their thinking. His ideas and views are even more relevant now than they were in the 1960s when he started to write the first of his sixty-six books. He resisted autobiography and biography because he didn’t want to get in the way of his ideas. He did not want to become the focus of attention, and journalists frustrated him, as he believed they (largely) focus on human angles, gimmicks, and attack, and often quoted him out of context. This is a shame as his ideas, as many of those I interviewed over the seven years, worked in real-world scenarios and made a lot of people very rich, both in their professional and personal lives.
He lived life to the full and was a global icon before it became relatively easy to be so, thanks to the internet. He dominated the world of ‘thinking’ and encouraged people to think about their thinking for over half a century. And he left behind him some very strong feelings. I knew him for the last ten years of his life, and I felt his passion for introducing lateral thinking lessons into schools was even more timely now that it was when he first suggested the idea back in the sixties. That is why I launched the book at the House of Lords, in front of distinguished guests, including Lord Bilimoria, Sir Anthony Seldon, Lord Woolley, Huw Levinson, Baroness Helena Kennedy as well as others interested in the thinking process, including Dr Alison Wood of Cambridge University and founder of Changemakers, Karen Chetwynd CEO Montessori Global, Nicola Tyler, who worked with Edward for years, advertising guru Dave Trott, and Dr Tara Swart who has written about the thinking process in her best-selling book as well.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
Edward resisted a biography and autobiography as he didn’t want to get in the way of his ideas. He was a charismatic man, who was able to hold the attention of schoolchildren, and CEOs, politicians, and creatives alike. He achieved so much in his life, his bibliography is a chapter in its own right, but when I asked him how he wished to be remembered he replied ‘as a writer, and for doing good’. As Baroness Helena Kennedy states in the excellent foreword, he was a visionary, who’s ideas have yet to be fully appreciated.
Did you find anything in your research of this story that surprised you?
So many things. Some trivial, others more significant.
For example, I didn’t know during the sixties, he was at one point the most travelled person (by air) on the planet (with BA at least) and that you are told by BA when you have clocked up enough air miles.
There were also so many people from diverse backgrounds I didn’t realise who had been influenced by his ideas. Fashion icon, Sir Paul Smith, is a huge fan, and so is author and illustrator Shaun Tan, as are the Eurythmics (who thanked him on the cover of their Sweet Dreams album), and I only discovered this in the process of researching the book.
I also noted how many reports differed in the number of books he had written. Edward himself wasn’t sure, but I referred to his family and they said ‘sixty-six’.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from Edward de Bono: Love Laterally?
I would like them to buy one of his books – perhaps a couple – which will make them think about their thinking. Everyone has a favourite that relates to their way of thinking, or the people they work with. Mine was the 1990 ‘I am Right You are Wrong’ which clearly identifies why critical thinking, argument, confrontation, and ego, get in the way of identifying solutions and lead to and encourage conflict, while lateral thinking encourages connection, collaboration, and communication as a way to identify solutions. Edward explains how and makes it fun and playful.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Sarah Tucker | Website | Amazon
Adored by advertising agencies, misunderstood by the media, and mistrusted by academia, De Bono became a household name dominating the field of creative thinking for half a century.
With contributions from de Bono’s former wife, Josephine de Bono, Sir Tony Blair and many others who knew de Bono – plus rare photographs from his family.
Edward de Bono: Love Laterally
Sarah Tucker’s Edward de Bono: Love Laterally paints a vivid and layered portrait of Edward de Bono, the man who coined and championed the concept of lateral thinking. Tucker delves into de Bono’s life with warmth, wit, and curiosity, offering a narrative that oscillates between his intellectual brilliance and personal quirks. From his early days in Malta to his global influence as a thinker and educator, the book captures the essence of a man who reshaped the way we approach creativity and problem-solving.
What struck me most was Tucker’s ability to weave anecdotes that showcased de Bono’s humor and humanity. One instance that stood out was when, as a young student, de Bono circumvented bullying by inventing a secret passageway at his boarding school, demonstrating his knack for innovative problem-solving even as a child. These moments are sprinkled throughout the book, making de Bono relatable, even to readers who might not be familiar with his academic legacy.
Tucker doesn’t shy away from exploring de Bono’s professional controversies. The criticism he faced for his theories lacking empirical support is discussed with nuance. Yet, the narrative also highlights the testimonies of countless professionals who credited de Bono’s methods for their success. The juxtaposition of detractors calling his work “pseudoscience” against admirers who saw him as transformative makes for a fascinating read. It’s clear Tucker admires her subject, but she’s also unafraid to question his more outlandish ideas, like his proposal to become the “King of Australia,” which borders on self-parody.
What I loved most were the glimpses into his creative philosophy. De Bono’s belief that education should encourage collaboration rather than competition resonated with me. His Six Thinking Hats methodology, which encourages diverse perspectives in problem-solving, exemplifies this ethos. Yet, Tucker’s coverage of de Bono’s struggles with institutional recognition and his complicated relationships with academia left me pondering the systemic rigidity that stifles innovation.
Edward de Bono: Love Laterally is a compelling read for anyone intrigued by creativity, psychology, or education. Tucker’s conversational tone and her ability to balance respect for de Bono with critical observation make this biography accessible and engaging. I’d recommend it to readers who appreciate stories of unconventional thinkers or those seeking inspiration to approach problems differently.
Pages: 256 | ISBN : 1913641465
Slow Burn Entrepreneur: Succeed on Your Own Terms with the RELAX Method
Michael Weber’s Slow Burn Entrepreneur offers a refreshing take on entrepreneurship, blending personal experiences with actionable insights. Unlike the fast-paced, burnout-inducing startup culture that dominates much of the entrepreneurial narrative, Weber introduces the concept of the “slow burn entrepreneur.” His approach emphasizes sustainable growth, balance, and long-term planning—principles that will resonate with both new entrepreneurs and seasoned business owners. He champions self-discipline, reflection, and maintaining a steady pace as realistic strategies for achieving success in today’s demanding business environment. Throughout the book, Weber communicates his ideas with clarity and precision, making complex concepts feel both approachable and relevant.
Weber’s writing is conversational and accessible, a style that keeps the reader engaged while delivering valuable lessons. He injects warmth and relatability into his business advice, weaving in vivid storytelling that brings the book to life. The imagery of deserted airports and tranquil beach sunsets adds a human touch, making the book more than just a guide; it’s a journey. His down-to-earth tone invites readers to connect with his experiences, from his early entrepreneurial struggles to the heights of his success. The result is a candid, reflective narrative that feels more like a seasoned mentor offering advice than a conventional business text. Anecdotes like his family’s time in Nicaragua during the pandemic add depth, showing the personal side of entrepreneurship. This balance between emotional resonance and practical advice makes the book accessible to a broad audience, free from jargon and over-complicated language. One of the book’s standout qualities is how Weber presents his ideas. He contrasts two distinct entrepreneurial archetypes: the fast-living, risk-taking entrepreneur prone to burnout and the patient, relationship-oriented business leader. This powerful comparison underscores the core philosophy of his “slow burn” approach. By sharing both his successes and failures, Weber invites readers to learn from his experiences in a way that feels authentic and relatable. His ability to simplify complex entrepreneurial concepts into digestible, practical steps sets this book apart. This book is not for those seeking quick wins or high-risk strategies. For readers looking for rapid scaling techniques, Weber’s measured, methodical approach may seem too cautious. Slow Burn Entrepreneur is a book that requires time to fully appreciate both the insights and the anecdotes.
Slow Burn Entrepreneur is a must-read for anyone interested in a thoughtful, realistic approach to building a business. Weber’s mix of personal storytelling, clear guidance, and practical advice offers a compelling and eye-opening perspective that challenges the traditional entrepreneurial mindset.
Pages: 178 | ASIN : B0DCY7BPB1
Impactful, Purpose-Driven Workplaces
Purposeful Performance is a guide for leaders and professionals seeking to infuse their work with greater meaning and value while advocating for a shift from profit-centric models to purpose-driven approaches that prioritize empathy, employee well-being, and community impact. Why was this an important book for you to write?
When the company I founded was acquired, I felt lonely and isolated. I went from being deeply connected to a purpose-driven organization to feeling isolated and disconnected in a new environment. My previous company had a clear mission of making a social impact and supporting our community, which gave me a profound sense of purpose.
The transition was tough, and I initially struggled with it. However, I recognized the need to adapt and embraced a new role at the acquiring company. I focused on transforming the organization’s approach from a profit-centric model to one that embraced a purpose-driven ethos. This shift not only re-engaged me but also reignited my passion for work.
Drawing from this experience, I wrote a book to address a critical issue: the broken state of the American workforce. Disengagement at work is at an all-time high, and people are searching for meaning. I aim to help leaders and professionals cultivate a work environment that fosters purpose and meaning. By sharing my journey and insights, I hope to inspire others to create impactful, purpose-driven workplaces that stand out and drive lasting change.
What is a common misconception you feel people have about gaging what is successful in business and life?
A common misconception about success in business and life is the overemphasis on money. While financial gain is often seen as the ultimate measure of success, true success is more about our impact on others.
Many of the most successful individuals I know lead with a mindset of support and service. They prioritize the well-being and success of those around them rather than focusing solely on their achievements. These leaders help others, offer support, and create connections that facilitate growth and progress for everyone involved.
Success, in my view, is about empowering others to reach their full potential and celebrating their achievements alongside them, not simply ahead of them. When you put the interests of others before your own, whether in your professional or personal life, you cultivate meaningful emotional connections.
For example, you demonstrate care and support when you come home and engage with your spouse by asking about their day and genuinely listening. This shift in focus from self to others enhances relationships and contributes to a broader sense of self-fulfillment and success.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
In my book, I emphasize that leaders can make a meaningful difference in the lives of the people they serve. One key idea is that selling products and services should not be about merely being the best but about positively impacting people’s feelings.
In many boardrooms, discussions rarely touch on a product’s or service’s emotional impact, yet understanding this is one of the best-kept secrets of fast-growing companies. Rather than focusing solely on metrics like increasing sales, businesses should ask themselves how they can change people’s perceptions of their offerings.
For instance, consider what emotions you want to evoke when customers interact with your brand. Identifying and targeting these emotions creates a deeper connection and enhances the customer experience. This emotional engagement can drive loyalty and satisfaction, setting your business apart.
Here’s a quick story that illustrates the power of emotion. I often visit a local convenience store where the staff has consistently made me feel valued and appreciated. However, a new employee has been operating the counter on my recent visits. This individual frequently leans against the counter, engrossed in his phone, and during my last visit, I waited for five minutes before he even acknowledged my presence at the register.
The shift was palpable: I went from feeling valued and respected to completely overlooked and unimportant. The loyalty and sense of belonging I once felt turned into frustration and alienation in a short period.
This experience highlights the crucial role of emotional engagement. How we interact with others can significantly impact their feelings and perceptions, underscoring the importance of maintaining a genuine connection in every interaction.
What is the one thing that people point out after reading your book that surprises you?
As a first-time author, I was initially apprehensive about sharing my work with the world. The overwhelming support and positive feedback deeply humbled me. One of the most surprising and gratifying aspects has been how readers resonate with the book’s core message about leading with intention.
For instance, one reader shared that the book inspired him to leave his job and pursue his dream of starting a purpose-driven business. While I don’t advocate making such significant changes without careful planning, it was fulfilling to see that my book provided the encouragement he needed to step out of his comfort zone.
Additionally, I’ve been pleasantly surprised to hear that many readers buy multiple copies—one for themselves and one for a leader they work with. This reflects a genuine desire for authenticity and meaning in the workplace, which the book seems to address effectively.
I’m incredibly grateful for the support from leaders and professionals who embrace the book’s message and find value in it.
Author Links: Goodreads | Linkedin | Website | Amazon
From profit to purpose: transform your business for meaningful impact.
The business landscape is shifting. At one time, the profit-first model drove strategic decision-making. Now business leaders are struggling with disengaged employees, unclear plans, and lack of purpose. It’s time to take a step back, get down to the heart of your organization’s mission, and lead with purpose.
In Purposeful Performance, business-strategy consultant and coach Jonathan Stanley gives business owners the key to developing a sense of purpose and meaning within and beyond their organization. Jonathan distills decades of experience as a business owner and CEO into a powerful framework that simplifies strategic planning into just eight slides. The Infinite Loop of Connection is a proven strategic plan that helps leaders define and create meaningful experiences for their employees, customers, and community. By aligning their teams around an authentic purpose and expressing their values, readers will learn how to unleash the full potential of their organizations.
In this book, you’ll discover:
Why the most successful businesses are those that operate with a clear, purpose-driven strategy.The 8-slide strategic plan that simplifies execution and alignment and deeply reflects your mission to drive societal impact.How to create a workplace where every team member is motivated by a shared sense of purpose, vastly improving productivity and satisfaction.Strategies for attracting customers who align with your values and purpose, including how to avoid the mistake of focusing on features over feeling. Tools for measuring and communicating the positive impact your business is making.
If you want to stand out, focus on showing care with an understanding of the advantages of being more human. Combining powerful insights on engagement, customer experience, and social impact into a cohesive approach that is accessible to leaders of small to medium-sized companies, Purposeful Performance is the guide to transforming your business and maybe the world around you. Ensure your next business move is fueled by meaning, and create a legacy that goes beyond the bottom line.
The Passionate Workforce: How to Create and Maintain Maximum Employee Engagement
A company’s success is intricately linked to the people who drive its operations, and Capman’s The Passionate Workforce delves into the critical dynamics of employee engagement and the transformative potential of authentic leadership. Central to Capman’s thesis is the idea that passion in the workplace is not just achievable for any job but essential for creating a thriving and successful organization. Capman sets the stage by sharing personal experiences from his career in various companies, using these narratives to illustrate how passion can be nurtured in any role with the right leadership support. His stories offer a relatable context, bringing his insights on cultivating workplace passion to life. At the heart of fostering a passionate workforce is effective leadership. Capman recounts his own journey from a self-centered CEO to a leader who genuinely prioritizes his employees’ well-being, underscoring that caring leadership is both ethical and strategic for achieving business success.
The Passionate Workforce is a rich repository of ideas and wisdom. One of the book’s standout lessons is the inherent link between leadership and humanity. Capman argues that understanding and valuing employees is fundamental for any leader. He introduces the concept of “self-profit maximization,” which reframes selfishness as a positive force when it involves achieving personal goals to help others succeed. This innovative perspective offers corporate leaders a new lens through which to enhance their employees’ lives. Additionally, Capman advocates for continuous improvement and provides comprehensive, actionable advice throughout the book. The author’s openness and transparency provide a window into his failures and how they fueled his growth as a leader. This honesty makes his advice particularly relatable and inspiring. The book is easy to navigate, with clear language and straightforward sentence structures. Readers will not only find Capman’s journey inspiring but will also be encouraged to reflect on their own paths.
The Passionate Workforce is an insightful and essential read for leaders and managers at all levels. Capman seamlessly blends personal narrative, practical advice, and philosophical ideas into a comprehensive guide for building a motivated and passionate team. The principles discussed are applicable beyond the workplace, suggesting that finding passion in life can lead to profound positive changes.
Pages: 118 | ASIN : B0D413TKNK
