In "Practicing Excellence: Restoring Civility, Faith & Trusted Leadership in the Public Square," Dr. Anthony Randall diagnoses the erosion of civility and trusted leadership in contemporary society. He argues that mediocrity, fueled by fear of criticism, undermines the virtues foundational to a healthy public square. Randall's compelling call to action urges the development of leaders of strong moral character, emphasizing the crucial role of faith in fostering transformative leadership. Through personal stories, historical analysis, and practical advice, he provides a roadmap for cultivating high-performance cultures grounded in ethical decision-making and emotional intelligence. This book challenges readers to embrace a growth mindset, actively implement these principles, and contribute to a more excellent world.
Review Practicing Excellence
Reading "Practicing Excellence" felt like a breath of fresh air in a world often choked by cynicism and division. Dr. Randall doesn't shy away from the harsh realities facing our society – the erosion of civility, the decline of trust in leadership, and the pressures of a culture that often rewards mediocrity over genuine excellence. But instead of dwelling on the problems, he offers a powerful and practical antidote: a call to cultivate character, integrity, and compassionate leadership.
What struck me most was the book's holistic approach. It's not just about technical skills or strategic thinking, though those are touched upon. It's deeply concerned with the inner life of the leader – the moral compass, the emotional intelligence, and the unwavering commitment to ethical decision-making. Randall convincingly argues that true leadership springs from a well-formed character, a foundation built on self-awareness, accountability, and a genuine desire to serve others. He doesn't shy away from the challenges this requires, acknowledging the potential for criticism and "cancel culture," but he firmly believes that the pursuit of excellence, even in the face of adversity, is ultimately worthwhile.
The book is far from preachy; it’s surprisingly engaging. Randall weaves together personal anecdotes, historical examples, and insightful research in a way that keeps the reader captivated. He doesn't offer simplistic solutions, but rather provides a framework for thoughtful reflection and action. The emphasis on faith, both personal and communal, resonated deeply with me, not as a religious imposition, but as a powerful source of moral grounding and inspiration for leaders striving to make a positive impact.
The practical advice offered is truly valuable. The book doesn't just tell you what to do; it offers tangible tools and strategies for fostering high-performance cultures grounded in character development, ethical decision-making, and emotional intelligence. It provides a roadmap for navigating the complexities of leadership in today's world, empowering leaders to build strong, resilient teams and organizations.
One of the things I appreciated most is the book's broad appeal. Whether you're a seasoned CEO, a community leader, a parent, or simply someone who cares about the future of our society, "Practicing Excellence" offers valuable insights and actionable strategies. It's a call to action, a challenge to rise above the noise and strive for something better – a call to practice excellence in all aspects of our lives. It left me feeling inspired and motivated to contribute to building a more just, compassionate, and trustworthy world, one act of excellence at a time. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking to lead with purpose, integrity, and a deep commitment to human flourishing. It's a book that will stay with you long after you've finished reading it, prompting ongoing reflection and a renewed commitment to personal and professional growth.
Information
- Dimensions: 6 x 0.47 x 9 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 186
- Publication date: 2024
- Publisher: E.P. House