During a period of enforced solitude during the Covid-19 pandemic,
Manfred Kets de Vries became introspective, reflective, and considered
how executives could emerge from unprecedented global events. The result
is a collection of 23 thought-provoking and focused chapters to help
executives take stock and re-evaluate their path during a time of
uncertainty.
Beginning with essays on 'Managing Self, ' Kets de Vries starts with
people's search for meaning and how we can deal with this important
question. Given our need for meaning, the question of human energy is
discussed. What gives executives energy? What makes them feel alive? How
best to use this energy? Several essays in this section deal with the
effects of the pandemic on people's perception and management of time.
The second section focuses on leadership and highlights several
executive types you've probably encountered at work and struggle to deal
with; complainers, belligerent people, and borderlines, will be part of
this parade. Also touching upon mental health issues and how
organizations should deal with this, this section gives a deep insight
into the leadership issues that we now face in what might be termed 'the
new normal.'
Finally, Kets de Vries places societal issues under the microscope.
Tackling a multitude of interrelated topics, he explores the challenges
of bringing in democratic processes into organizational settings, as
well as the perils of loneliness and the issues faced by women in
organization - and how society can better deal with it.
Littered with Manfred Kets de Vries' trademark wit and psychological
insight into the pressing issues of today, these essays can be read
independently or as part of a guided tour around the daily perils of
executive life.
