Written by a respected expert on the psychological effects of downsizing, and well known among executives, managers, and the business media for his methods in treating “layoff survivor sickness” Breaking Free, introduces clear and accessible concepts for identifying ways of responding to change in today’s work environment. The book addresses the self-defeating ways people and organizations react to rapid, seemingly relentless change, and advocates a steady diet of learning as the surest way to break free. Associating various responses to change with four character types — The Overwhelmed, The Entrenched, The BSers, and The Learners — the author holds up The Learners as the attainable ideal…and shows how to help those in the other categories pursue the learning path. The ultimate goal: to facilitate transition to a more flexible, self-directed workplace The book illuminates fundamental leadership qualities many modern executives need greatly to head: to ‘know thyself’ and to manifest those qualities of leadership that help others to become persons of hope, self-esteem, and accountability. According to David Noer, the only response that works is the positive willingness to learn and meet change head-on. The book presents a new and provocative view of personal and organizational change. It is particularly helpful to leaders learning how to deal with the constraints of the past and how to liberate both people and organizations for an exuberant future.
Authors: David M. Noer
Publishers: Jossey-Bass Publishers
Date of Publication: 1997
No. of pages: 262