In Mette’s interactions with high-potential leaders she has noticed four persistent patterns. First, they are ambitious, talented, and hard working. They are also savvy about the steps, rules, habits, and rituals for success. Moreover, they relentlessly push themselves to become ever-better leaders, spouses, parents, and athletes. These three patterns lead to a fourth one: They rarely slow down, reflect, and connect to their essential way of being, their inner wisdom.To connect to your inner voice, take a timeout and read The Ugly Duckling Goes to Work: Wisdom for the Workplace from the Classic Tales of Hans Christian Andersen. Here you will find three cautionary and three inspirational tales.
The cautionary ones show the consequences of being overly concerned with other people’s opinions, rewards, and recognition. The others speak to the issues of longing, balance, and professional mastery. The first set is largely pragmatic and requires doing, while the second is idealistic and concerns being. Combined they will help you to bring more meaning, more energy, and more joy to your work.
Andersen’s stories are profoundly relevant today, as his “heroes” are authentic, congruent, and real; his “villains” are narrow-minded, self-satisfied, and smug; and his hope is that we all will have the courage to follow our longing.
Readers will discover a quiet power in this book…
USA Today
The Ugly Duckling Goes to Work is indeed a gift to those who seek to improve the quality of life at work.
Stephen Lundin, the Big Tuna, author of the bestseller FISH!, FISH! Sticks, and FISH! For Life.
There is no more powerful tool for learning than stories. In this delightful book, Mette teases out the wisdom of the tales of Hans Christian Andersen to enlighten our lives in and out of the workplace.
I recommend it highly!
William Ury, co-author of the bestsellers Getting to Yes, and author of The Third Side
This book is temporarily unavailable. New print and e-book editions are coming soon.