There are some times when it seems that writing a book is a futile endeavor. Like when people ask me for a one page summary because they really don't have time for books. In fact, three bullet points would really be better. Or when I am introduced as the co-author of Complex Habits for Simple Minds (this really happened!). Sigh.

But then there are the times when the years of effort that go into writing a book seem so entirely worthwhile because of what other people do with it. Rafael Lopez at Citigroup is a shining example of that.

Raf has taken Simple Habits and turned it into not only a book group, but a developmental curriculum for a bunch of his colleagues. When Keith and I envisioned Simple Habits, we imagined people using it as a kind of curriculum, but we didn't imagine that people would use it as a springboard for a better curriculum than ours! Raf's group at Citi doesn't just read the chapters together, they really work with them and add to them and make them their own. In keeping with Citi's work supporting the development of its people--and particularly their desire to handle complexity and change with grace--they have used our book as a platform for their growth rather than simply a set of ideas to be consumed.

Ok, so the virtual Conversations at the Growing Edge is full. Let Diana know if you'd be interested in finding out about the next one. Click here for more information.

Already taken that one?
Jennifer is offering an Expanding Client Horizons Openly workshop in September 6-8 in Wellington.

Carolyn and Beth are offering a Psychologically Spacious Coaching workshop November 6-8 in suburban Washington DC. Click here for more information on that one.

Here you'll find a video of Zafer talking about complexity and change (this is worth clicking on just to hear his experience as a young consultant with an innovative change strategy).

And here's Jennifer talking about complexity of mind and the way adults grow and change over time--and why it matters to support ourselves and others to grow.

Or if you'd rather listen than watch, here's an interview with Jennifer. Marcia Hyatt asks about practical tips for making our lives better in complexity. See what you think.