Deliberate Calm

The permanent turbulence of markets and organizations puts leaders to a harsh test. They are regularly confronted with transformations that require rethinking their understanding of the dynamics at work and adapting their approaches. And yet, as soon as the stakes are high, stress comes into play, with a perverse effect: it leads to clinging to one’s convictions and habits, even though the situation specifically requires learning and adapting.

The authors draw on their work within the McKinsey consulting firm to help us gain awareness of this phenomenon and guide us on the way to manage its effects. They place at the heart of their work the ability to become aware in real time of one’s level of stress and its influence on our reactions. They invite us to expand this awareness to the beliefs that condition our perceptions of situations and thus play a major role in the intensity of the stress felt. Indeed, it is not only a question of managing the repercussions of our stress, but equally of working on the patterns of thought that are at the origin of this stress.

An enlightening and pedagogical work, rich in explanatory examples, concepts and detailed methodological advice.