About the Book Based on extensive multi-year empirical research, The Pragmatic Optimist addresses what it takes to be a leading light in the darkest hours of a business or economic crisis. Using real-world case studies, you will discover how to avoid the common cognitive and behavioral traps to which all leaders are most susceptible in the heat of a crisis. Finally, you will acquire the necessary insights to develop pragmatic optimism—a winning hybrid mindset—and practice its six results-oriented strategies for success even under extreme conditions. Praises for The Pragmatic Optimist “Dr. Daniel Monehin has produced a remarkably timely masterpiece. I have studied crisis leadership for over thirty years, yet Dr. Monehin’s The Pragmatic Optimist took my understanding of leading in a crisis to a new level—I am a huge fan of this book.” - Dr. Thomas A. Kolditz, Ph.D., Brigadier General, US Army (ret), Professor Emeritus at the US Military Academy, West Point, and author, In Extremis Leadership: Leading as if Your Life Depended on It “The Pragmatic Optimist brings together factual information and the process to develop your own leadership style. I love when I find a good easy-to-apply book that I could use in my work.” - Dr. Wendy Borlabi, Psy. D., Director of Performance & Mental Health, Chicago Bulls “Dr. Daniel Monehin’s breadth of experience and depth as a global leader combined with his ability to lead through transformational change has catapulted this book to my shortlist of recommended reading to any leader.” - Ron Garrow, Executive Partner, Chief Human Resources Officer Advisory Practice at Gartner Inc. “There are many books on leadership, but few that actually give specific and actionable insights on what leaders must do in a crisis. Dr. Monehin's The Pragmatic Optimist stands tall above others—If you read only one book on leadership, it should be this one.” - Efosa Ojomo, Director of Global Prosperity at the Clayton Christensen Institute for Disruptive Innovation “Dr. Monehin draws on decades within multinationals, rigorous academic study, and importantly, his own life experience to produce this important work at this crucial time.” - Christine Elliott, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Moody’s Corporation “Having worked with Dr. Daniel Monehin for many years, I have seen him lead businesses successfully through turbulent environments. Who better than Daniel to lead us through the best of crisis management.” - Ann Cairns, Executive Vice Chair, Mastercard Inc. “Dr. Monehin, clearly and concisely, develops an essential framework for leaders to successfully overcome perilous situations. This book is an excellent manual for leaders from all spheres of influence and should be read before the next crisis!” - Femi Cadmus, Law Librarian and Professor of Law, Yale University “Between a global pandemic, social injustice and a racial reckoning, and a challenging economic climate, leaders have been tested in unprecedented ways. The Pragmatic Optimist provides an excellent roadmap for executives to successfully navigate times of adversity by keeping their vision and values in focus.” - Marisa Grimes Galiber, Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer, U.S. Tennis Association (USTA)

We live in uncertain times propelled by complex systems, climate change and the use of technology which possess various threats. At times of crisis, leadership that permits quick reactions to the changing organisational environment becomes necessary. However, there has been limited studies that provide a road map of leading during a crisis. What is required of leaders during a crisis? How can you develop the required leadership expertise during such turbulent periods? What are the challenges leaders will have to combat? Through this book, these questions are answered. It is no exaggeration therefore to claim that this book opens a new chapter as it seeks to advance discussions about how to lead during crisis. Drawing on empirical and conceptual evidence from the perspective of renowned authors in leadership research, it offers a robust and engaging overview of the field of leadership and leadership development in turbulent and dynamic environments. The chapters in the book support the personal and professional development of aspiring and experienced leaders and managers. The readers will be able to display critical awareness of current developments in both the theory and practice of leadership and leadership development and its importance in modern organisations.

In a world that often seems overwhelmed by negativity, it’s easy to fall into a mindset dominated by fear, doubt, and despair. The news bombards us with stories of conflict and disaster, social media amplifies our insecurities, and our own minds, shaped by millennia of evolution, seem wired to focus on what could go wrong rather than what could go right. This tendency is rooted in what psychologists call the negativity bias—a survival mechanism that has helped our ancestors stay alert to dangers and threats, ensuring our species’ survival. But while this bias served a vital purpose in a world where immediate threats were everywhere, in today’s complex and interconnected world, it can often do more harm than good. Imagine, for a moment, the life of a mouse. This tiny creature lives in a constant state of vigilance, always on the lookout for predators. Every rustle in the grass, every shadow overhead, could mean life or death. The mouse’s survival depends on its ability to sense danger and react swiftly, driven by a deep-rooted fear. But even with all this caution, the mouse may still fall prey to a hawk or a cat. Despite a lifetime of fear and anxiety, its end is still uncertain. Now, consider how this analogy applies to humans. Like the mouse, we too are often driven by fear—fear of failure, fear of rejection, fear of the unknown. We focus on negative possibilities, convinced that by doing so, we might protect ourselves from harm. But unlike the mouse, humans possess something more: the capacity for reflection, reasoning, and, most importantly, choice. We can choose not to live our lives dictated by fear. We can choose to focus on the positives, to cultivate optimism, and to embrace life’s challenges with hope and resilience. This book, "The Optimist’s Path: Harnessing Positivity for Success, Purpose, and Meaning," is an exploration of how to make that choice. It delves into the psychological and philosophical foundations of optimism, offering insights and strategies for living a more fulfilling, meaningful life. Through a blend of psychology and philosophy, we will uncover the profound impact that a positive mindset can have on our mental and physical health, our relationships, our careers, and our overall sense of purpose. The journey begins with understanding the basic human tendency to focus on the negative, as illustrated in the tale of the mouse and the man. From there, we explore the many benefits of optimism—how it can strengthen our resilience, improve our health, and even extend our lives. We will look at the science behind optimism, drawing on the latest psychological research, and we will revisit the wisdom of ancient philosophers who understood the power of a positive mindset long before the term "optimism" was coined. But this book is not just about theory; it’s about practical application. You’ll find strategies for cultivating optimism in your daily life, from simple cognitive techniques to profound shifts in perspective. We’ll discuss how to balance optimism with realism, ensuring that our positive outlook is grounded in reality, not wishful thinking. And, in the final chapter, we’ll reflect on the ultimate purpose of life through the eyes of a monk who, despite having no material wealth, finds joy and fulfillment in the simplest of things. As you embark on this journey, I invite you to consider what it means to truly live. Is it simply about surviving, like the mouse, constantly on guard against the next threat? Or is it about thriving, embracing life’s uncertainties with an open heart and a hopeful spirit? The choice is yours. And by choosing optimism, you’re not just choosing to see the glass as half full; you’re choosing a path that leads to a richer, more meaningful existence. Welcome to The Optimist’s Path—a journey toward a life filled with hope, resilience, and the quiet, unshakable belief that, despite the challenges, life is inherently good.

A proven, practical and motivational guide to the 10 psychological characteristics displayed by high achievers, that we can all develop in order to be more successful in life and work. 'An inspiring and practical guide, showing how we can all use our strengths to achieve success' - Dame Kelly Holmes 'A must-read for anyone interested in maximising their potential!' - Chrissie Wellington OBE Sport psychologist Dr Josephine Perry spends her life working with exceptional performers. She has identified ten psychological pillars that the ultra-successful have ingrained within their approach. And the good news is that we can all learn these mental building blocks. In this book you'll hear those who have excelled in their field discussing their route to success and learn how you can emulate them. A sense of belonging, mastery, autonomy, purpose, confidence, process, courage, optimism, internal insight or gratitude - all these skills can be vital in helping us overcome setbacks that can stand in the way of achieving our goals. From the double Olympic champion who is passionate about collaboration, to the James Bond Stuntman who has cultivated courage, to the Ironman athlete who harnessed the power of gratitude, each case study demonstrates how we can turn a pillar into a superpower. Illuminating and inspiring, The Ten Pillars of Success will give every reader a roadmap to reach their full potential.

Are YOU living the life you were meant to lead? Are you stuck in a rut with a desire to improve but uncertain where to start? Are you searching for meaningful purpose and focus in your life right now? Are you spinning multiple plates and want to sense check whether what you're currently doing will result in you achieving your goals? We ALL have the potential to achieve GREATNESS. The biggest obstacle standing in your way is YOU and your own limiting beliefs. The greatest opportunity lies within YOU. Are you ready to unlock your potential, unleash your success and create the future you want? RISE is about placing you firmly in the driver's seat of your life, as the architect of your own destiny. RISE not only gives you the tools to become successful, it shows you how to use and master the tools for a lifetime of success. RISE is your blueprint to a compelling future. Your time is NOW... let's get started 'Rise is literally your personal success coach in your pocket' Perry Power, Entrepreneur & Digital Marketing Guru 'A positive nudge to help and restore your attitude of action' James Devine, Medway NHS Foundation Trust

Fifteen philosophers representuing different schools of thought answer the question what is Woody Allen trying to say in his films? And why should anyone care? Focusing on different works and varied aspects of Allen's multifaceted output, these essays explore the philosophical undertones of Anne Hall, Crimes and Misdemeanors, Manhattan, A Midsummer Night's Sex Comedy and reminds us that just because the universe is meaningless and life is pointless is no reason to commit suicide.

In this provocative book, philosopher Nicholas Agar defends the idea that parents should be allowed to enhance their children’s characteristics. Gets away from fears of a Huxleyan ‘Brave New World’ or a return to the fascist eugenics of the past Written from a philosophically and scientifically informed point of view Considers real contemporary cases of parents choosing what kind of child to have Uses ‘moral images’ as a way to get readers with no background in philosophy to think about moral dilemmas Provides an authoritative account of the science involved, making the book suitable for readers with no knowledge of genetics Creates a moral framework for assessing all new technologies

Why looking up matters A positive attitude is important, but until now we didn’t know how important. In Up, a practicing physician and NIH-funded researcher draws on her research and experience to show that our outlook on life— our unique patterns of thinking and feeling about ourselves, others, and the world—may be the key to how well and how fast we age. From wrinkles to cognitive decline, our outlook affects our health at every level. Using the framework of outlook GPS, Up illustrates how we can gauge our current attitude latitude and move to healthier ground. Tindle brings a fresh eye to attitudinal traits such as optimism, noting that it has many faces, including the face of her own struggling optimism. Using the 7 Steps of Attitudinal Change that she applies to her own patients, Tindle offers us a path toward healthy aging. Prescriptive and accessible, Up puts forward a paradigm shift in how we age and treat disease, giving even the most struggling optimists a chance for hope. It will appeal to readers of The Longevity Project by Howard S. Friedman and Leslie R. Martin as well as The Blue Zones by Dan Buettner.

"Proceedings of the twenty-second annual symposium of the Klutznick Chair in Jewish Civilization - Harris Center for Judaic Studies, October 25-26, 2009" -- P. [i].