What do you think?
Rate this book
From Tension to Transformation: A Leader's Guide to Generative Change
2024 Axiom Award Silver Medalist in Independent Thought Leadership
How do we embrace being generative to sustain excellence in the workplace?
The modern working world doesn't leave much time for reflection. Leaders in particular are encouraged to speed ahead, make quick decisions, and seek swift solutions to any problem that may arise. However, the full-speed-ahead approach can backfire. By taking time to pause and reflect, it’s possible to notice new pathways and develop innovative solutions that allow for impactful results.
Executive coach Janet M. Harvey has worked with leaders and teams around the world to explore the common tensions that arise in the workplace. Her conclusion? Tension in the workplace is inevitable. It’s how you navigate it that determines whether you will sustain excellence—or flame out.
In this book, Janet explores the vehicle of generative change as one way to navigate tension in the workplace. Using real-life case studies and personal anecdotes, she compiles decades of her work as a coach to introduce readers to the vehicle of generative change. Each chapter includes activities and reflection exercises, making this an actionable guide that anyone can use to explore the value of generative change for themselves.
How do we embrace being generative to sustain excellence in the workplace?
The modern working world doesn't leave much time for reflection. Leaders in particular are encouraged to speed ahead, make quick decisions, and seek swift solutions to any problem that may arise. However, the full-speed-ahead approach can backfire. By taking time to pause and reflect, it’s possible to notice new pathways and develop innovative solutions that allow for impactful results.
Executive coach Janet M. Harvey has worked with leaders and teams around the world to explore the common tensions that arise in the workplace. Her conclusion? Tension in the workplace is inevitable. It’s how you navigate it that determines whether you will sustain excellence—or flame out.
In this book, Janet explores the vehicle of generative change as one way to navigate tension in the workplace. Using real-life case studies and personal anecdotes, she compiles decades of her work as a coach to introduce readers to the vehicle of generative change. Each chapter includes activities and reflection exercises, making this an actionable guide that anyone can use to explore the value of generative change for themselves.
- GenresNonfictionBusiness
223 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 9, 2024
21 people are currently reading
1005 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
January 3, 2024
Well, the book and concepts are useful,
But…
Damn, was it hard to read. Especially, considering the fact that the author uses tons of terms that they assigned meaning to or just pulled from other fields.
Also, throughout the whole book I felt like I’m missing context a lot
But…
Damn, was it hard to read. Especially, considering the fact that the author uses tons of terms that they assigned meaning to or just pulled from other fields.
Also, throughout the whole book I felt like I’m missing context a lot
March 9, 2024
From Tension to Transformation: A Leader's Guide to Generative Change by Janet M. Harvey
I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley with an opportunity to review the book.
I have little doubt that Janet Harvey is an effective executive coach, and most of the book is her personal anecdotes from those one-on-one experiences helping someone see how their personality traits, biases, etc. are contributing to team dysfunction. She has the confidence of a formerly high-performance athlete and an introspection -- truly comfortable in her own skin-- that is rare. She attempts to distill her nuggets of wisdom and trademarked curriculum into a book and while I appreciated some of the pearls, I found it just didn't flow well.
The author drops a bombshell halfway through the book, revealing her own difficult life-changing epiphany that could have been the basis for a different kind of book articulating her comeback story. While being fired from her job, an executive in the company tells her "I would never hire you for an operational leadership position because people can't stand to work for you" (loc. 1200). She explains in a few pages her introspective journey and commitment to change that led her to her style today-- to build teams and focus on collaborative projects. This is a remarkable item almost buried in the book.
I appreciated her comments on tension the most. I'm a middle manager, working in an office where I'm sometimes a buffer between staff and managers higher up. While the ground-level staff who carry the bulk of the actual work may have decades of longevity, the average tenure of managers is only 2-3 years. It is an environment where change is always expected, and tension can be there; staff live in a tension of embracing a change or waiting it out.
"If you take away nothing else from this book, I hope you take away...the value of pause" (loc. 2473).
I found the reminder helpful to slow down and be mindful, to sit with the tension, and take time to identify the source and possible solution. Sitting in your own tension to identify those items where you need to change yourself. To find personal "sovereignty," which is describing the peak of emotional health. There's also a significant amount about psychological safety, where you create an environment where team members feel truly safe to speak out and voice their concerns.
In summary:
Problem/conflict -> tension -> moment to pause and be curious -> listen -> identify the problem -> move on to the creative solution, the "generative change."
Perhaps the next closest book that I have reviewed to this one is Robert Sutton's Good Boss, Bad Boss which I recommend highly. A better editor probably could have repackaged this in a more readable format. The diagrams and graphics are helpful, but there seemed to be so much back-forth reference to previous concepts that it was difficult to follow. For example, her key acronym for "generative change" is ACAAR and the individual components are explained over several paragraphs instead of just up front writing it as an acrostic. She begins with "R" (for results) first, explains them in an a different order than the acronym, and never really makes it memorable.
Part of this book's problem may be a language problem. While the books is written for all "leaders," today's executive MBA curriculums are so jargon-heavy it is difficult to translate to the middle manager or team leader. When an author trademarks her own concepts, it's slightly off-putting to me. She writes a lot about helping leaders find "their authentic selves," but given the misogyny she's witnessed in her career and basic math, I can only imagine that some of her clients' authentic selves are narcissistic; she does not talk much about dealing with that level of toxicity.
"(As a leader, your job is to shape a world where people love their life's work. That's it" (loc. 1776).
I appreciated this admonition, but also found it a bit much. Your identity shouldn't be in your job or your company, or else you'll find it dissatisfying. The tasks and asks of a company are myriad and you'll be tasked with things that are not "your life's work." She refers to the recent massive turnover in the workforce as millions of people have moved to new jobs multiple times in recent years. I think some of that is based on disenchantment of taking a job at XYZ company expecting it to be their "life's work," and it quickly rings hollow. Yor company is not your family, your friends, or your church. Your company may fail just the same as you may move for a loved one who gets sick or for a spouse who finds something really meaningful herself. I prefer Sutton's admonition to bosses-- to leaders-- to begin a new employee's career with an exit interview, helping the new hires set goals for themselves so they will have achieved them by the time they move on to the next role or next company.
In all, I give this book 2.5 stars out of 5. The author has shown she's a good coach delivering her curriculum in person, but a better editor could make a good book out of it.
I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley with an opportunity to review the book.
I have little doubt that Janet Harvey is an effective executive coach, and most of the book is her personal anecdotes from those one-on-one experiences helping someone see how their personality traits, biases, etc. are contributing to team dysfunction. She has the confidence of a formerly high-performance athlete and an introspection -- truly comfortable in her own skin-- that is rare. She attempts to distill her nuggets of wisdom and trademarked curriculum into a book and while I appreciated some of the pearls, I found it just didn't flow well.
The author drops a bombshell halfway through the book, revealing her own difficult life-changing epiphany that could have been the basis for a different kind of book articulating her comeback story. While being fired from her job, an executive in the company tells her "I would never hire you for an operational leadership position because people can't stand to work for you" (loc. 1200). She explains in a few pages her introspective journey and commitment to change that led her to her style today-- to build teams and focus on collaborative projects. This is a remarkable item almost buried in the book.
I appreciated her comments on tension the most. I'm a middle manager, working in an office where I'm sometimes a buffer between staff and managers higher up. While the ground-level staff who carry the bulk of the actual work may have decades of longevity, the average tenure of managers is only 2-3 years. It is an environment where change is always expected, and tension can be there; staff live in a tension of embracing a change or waiting it out.
"If you take away nothing else from this book, I hope you take away...the value of pause" (loc. 2473).
I found the reminder helpful to slow down and be mindful, to sit with the tension, and take time to identify the source and possible solution. Sitting in your own tension to identify those items where you need to change yourself. To find personal "sovereignty," which is describing the peak of emotional health. There's also a significant amount about psychological safety, where you create an environment where team members feel truly safe to speak out and voice their concerns.
In summary:
Problem/conflict -> tension -> moment to pause and be curious -> listen -> identify the problem -> move on to the creative solution, the "generative change."
Perhaps the next closest book that I have reviewed to this one is Robert Sutton's Good Boss, Bad Boss which I recommend highly. A better editor probably could have repackaged this in a more readable format. The diagrams and graphics are helpful, but there seemed to be so much back-forth reference to previous concepts that it was difficult to follow. For example, her key acronym for "generative change" is ACAAR and the individual components are explained over several paragraphs instead of just up front writing it as an acrostic. She begins with "R" (for results) first, explains them in an a different order than the acronym, and never really makes it memorable.
Part of this book's problem may be a language problem. While the books is written for all "leaders," today's executive MBA curriculums are so jargon-heavy it is difficult to translate to the middle manager or team leader. When an author trademarks her own concepts, it's slightly off-putting to me. She writes a lot about helping leaders find "their authentic selves," but given the misogyny she's witnessed in her career and basic math, I can only imagine that some of her clients' authentic selves are narcissistic; she does not talk much about dealing with that level of toxicity.
"(As a leader, your job is to shape a world where people love their life's work. That's it" (loc. 1776).
I appreciated this admonition, but also found it a bit much. Your identity shouldn't be in your job or your company, or else you'll find it dissatisfying. The tasks and asks of a company are myriad and you'll be tasked with things that are not "your life's work." She refers to the recent massive turnover in the workforce as millions of people have moved to new jobs multiple times in recent years. I think some of that is based on disenchantment of taking a job at XYZ company expecting it to be their "life's work," and it quickly rings hollow. Yor company is not your family, your friends, or your church. Your company may fail just the same as you may move for a loved one who gets sick or for a spouse who finds something really meaningful herself. I prefer Sutton's admonition to bosses-- to leaders-- to begin a new employee's career with an exit interview, helping the new hires set goals for themselves so they will have achieved them by the time they move on to the next role or next company.
In all, I give this book 2.5 stars out of 5. The author has shown she's a good coach delivering her curriculum in person, but a better editor could make a good book out of it.
February 23, 2024
In today's fast-paced work environment, characterized by a constant push for quick decisions, "From Tension to Transformation" serves as a reminder of the value in pausing for reflection before taking action. Through the insightful words of author Janet M. Harvey, the book illuminates how this seemingly small act of stopping to contemplate can pave the way for groundbreaking solutions and heightened fulfillment in our professional lives. Additionally, the accessible tone and clarity of presentation make it both an uplifting and easy-to-follow read.
This guide turns out to be very useful as it includes a variety of activities and reflection exercises that invite the reader to apply the concepts directly to their work lives. These practical tools not only reinforce the principles discussed but also help turn abstract ideas into tangible actions and concrete results. In summary, I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking to improve their decision-making skills in the work environment.
This guide turns out to be very useful as it includes a variety of activities and reflection exercises that invite the reader to apply the concepts directly to their work lives. These practical tools not only reinforce the principles discussed but also help turn abstract ideas into tangible actions and concrete results. In summary, I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking to improve their decision-making skills in the work environment.
February 22, 2024
Helpful book.
The work environment can be challenging for everyone and can affect the outcome of the business, and one of the manager's main jobs is to keep everything under control. ''From Tension to Transformation'', written by executive coach Janet M. Harvey, is the book that will guide you on the path to becoming the leader your company needs. An interesting thing about this book is that it begins with a look at you, like your habits. One of the fundamental principles that the author applies is to look inside yourself; it is the first thing you should analyze to transform yourself into a leader. The author is an amazing coach and reading this book will be helpful if you want to improve your leadership.
The work environment can be challenging for everyone and can affect the outcome of the business, and one of the manager's main jobs is to keep everything under control. ''From Tension to Transformation'', written by executive coach Janet M. Harvey, is the book that will guide you on the path to becoming the leader your company needs. An interesting thing about this book is that it begins with a look at you, like your habits. One of the fundamental principles that the author applies is to look inside yourself; it is the first thing you should analyze to transform yourself into a leader. The author is an amazing coach and reading this book will be helpful if you want to improve your leadership.
February 23, 2024
This read was of great value to me in realistically addressing the challenges of leadership. The author doesn't shy away from complexities, such as working with teams with apathetic attitudes, highlighting that this tension can be turned into an opportunity for positive transformation. What I highlight in this book is its focus on less-than-ideal contexts, offering practical steps to improve complicated situations. Harvey doesn't just stop at theory; It provides concrete strategies for real-world situations. It's a valuable tool that I recommend for leaders looking to navigate the complexities of today's work environment, filling that gap between ideal leadership scenarios and the day-to-day difficulties many of us face.
February 23, 2024
I highly recommend this book, from Tension to Transformation by Janet M. Harvey. It is an amazing book that helped me to understand how to face workplace tensions effectively. I think it is so important to recognize the author's journey and, in this book, it is obvious her experience in executive coaching. She uses real-life case studies and personal anecdotes to highlight the inevitability of tension in the workplace and the transformative potential of generative change. For me, this book is really practical and easy to put into action, it offers activities and reflection exercises in each chapter that helped me apply generative change principles in my own contexts. The work environment is so important and with this book, you will succeed as a leader.
February 23, 2024
From Tension to Transformation by Janet M. Harvey is a guide that is one of my top when we are talking about growing and development. It helped me to know how to have a positive change in my organization. This book combines the author's deep knowledge of coaching and leadership development to offer a blend of theoretical insights and practical advice which for me was the best part. I think this book focuses on generative change, emphasizing changes that create ongoing positive impacts, because it is important for our business to have great results and happy employees. For me its approach to dealing with real-world leadership challenges, providing a roadmap through relatable examples and case studies is amazing.
February 24, 2024
A motivating guide.
From Tension to Transformation by Janet Harvey is an excellent written book. Harvey has worked with many leaders and teams to explore the inevitable tensions in the workplace and most importantly reflect on them in a way that amplifies results and offers her perspective through this emphatic guide.
I really liked the author’s writing style because it is challenging and provocative but intelligent and motivating. The book is entertaining because it is based on real-life experiences, and the best thing is that it includes activities to put your knowledge into practice. I think people can identify with these stories and find a path to a different solution. It can be good for leaders who feel overwhelmed with work problems, I recommend it.
From Tension to Transformation by Janet Harvey is an excellent written book. Harvey has worked with many leaders and teams to explore the inevitable tensions in the workplace and most importantly reflect on them in a way that amplifies results and offers her perspective through this emphatic guide.
I really liked the author’s writing style because it is challenging and provocative but intelligent and motivating. The book is entertaining because it is based on real-life experiences, and the best thing is that it includes activities to put your knowledge into practice. I think people can identify with these stories and find a path to a different solution. It can be good for leaders who feel overwhelmed with work problems, I recommend it.
March 19, 2024
This is a good book to apply at home or in a career, wherever leadership is taking place. The most important thing I took away from this book was being ok with tension in the workplace. As a boss or leader I always was afraid of this concept or thought if there was a conflict in the workplace, it meant I wasn't doing a good job. This book helped me see that tension and conflict is inevitable and can be useful for growth. I found many things helpful for leading others in a way that makes them feel valued and important.
I will definitely read this again and again and recommend to other leaders as well.
Thank you for selecting me to receive this book in a giveaway. I probably would not have sought it out on my own.
I will definitely read this again and again and recommend to other leaders as well.
Thank you for selecting me to receive this book in a giveaway. I probably would not have sought it out on my own.
February 21, 2024
"From Tension to Transformation” by Janet M. Harvey is a great book that will put the messy things into perspective! How a leader behaves, and thinks is critical for a company and Harvey does a great job explaining in simple words this process and how to manage the tension as it rises.
I was able to learn a lot from this book, not only to understand how to lead with kindness but also to reach for success at the same time. I always struggle with the "good cop/bad cop" situation and Harvey's insight helped me see that I can be an efficient leader! I enjoyed the real-life examples she provided because they helped me view the concept! I can't recommend this enough!
I was able to learn a lot from this book, not only to understand how to lead with kindness but also to reach for success at the same time. I always struggle with the "good cop/bad cop" situation and Harvey's insight helped me see that I can be an efficient leader! I enjoyed the real-life examples she provided because they helped me view the concept! I can't recommend this enough!
March 7, 2024
This read offers a refreshing perspective on navigating workplace tensions and fostering sustainable excellence. Harvey's insights cut through the noise of fast-paced decision-making, emphasizing the importance of reflection and innovation. Through real-life case studies and practical exercises, she equips leaders with the tools to embrace generative change and transform workplace dynamics. This book is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to cultivate a culture of resilience and growth within their organization. Harvey's approachable writing style makes complex concepts accessible, making this a must-read for leaders at all levels.
April 24, 2024
I received this as a Goodreads Giveaway book, and had been putting off reading it. I was afraid that it was going to say the same things that every leadership book tells you. I have to say I was completely wrong. It’s not often that I have things that I’m immediately ready to implement into my leadership ways from a book. And this one has at least three immediate ones, and then some that I want to spend more time on. Definitely worth the time of you are a leader of any team!!! No matter how big or small your team is. And especially if you are looking to continue to grow and move up as a leader!
March 5, 2024
This is a revelation for leaders seeking sustainable success in today's fast-paced world. With wisdom honed through years of coaching, Harvey navigates the complex landscape of workplace tensions, offering a refreshing perspective on how to turn challenges into catalysts for growth.
What I love most about this book is its practical approach. The author doesn't just preach theory but provides actionable strategies and exercises that any leader can implement immediately.
This book is a valuable companion on the journey to creating lasting, positive change in any organization.
What I love most about this book is its practical approach. The author doesn't just preach theory but provides actionable strategies and exercises that any leader can implement immediately.
This book is a valuable companion on the journey to creating lasting, positive change in any organization.
February 22, 2024
This is a great start in relieving that tension for yourself and at your workspaces! You really do need to check in with yourself and with the people you work with in order to be successful. It's very hard to do that, but it is so so worth it. The examples provided were good, but I wish they had a little more information or context to show the reader how each lesson really works. It's a reminder that we have to do the dirty work in order to grow.
January 29, 2024
This was a Goodreads giveaway winner. It was a very informative book.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews