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Go Together: How the Concept of Ubuntu will Change How We Work, Live and Lead
In Go Together, workplace civility expert Shola Richards suggests replacing divisiveness and incivility with a commitment to living, working, and leading together to positively change the world.
Go Together begins with the story of an impactful keynote speech Richards gave at a conference on workplace civility and a powerful concept of Ubuntu. A transcendent African philosophy, Ubuntu represent the power of human connectedness, compassion, kindness, and togetherness. It was the central theme of his speech on that day, and it also serves as the central theme of this book. He hopes that it becomes a rallying cry on his journey.
Among the subjects that Richards covers are developing empathy through curiosity; the beliefs that destroy connection (and what to do about them); the eight keys to Ubuntu at work; four ways you can cultivate more warmth as a leader; resilience and digging deep to keep moving forward; standing up to bigotry, hate, and intolerance; and more. Richards writes, “The only thing that is required of us to stop the recurring pattern of the painful lessons of the past is to commit to go together from this point forward.”
Go Together begins with the story of an impactful keynote speech Richards gave at a conference on workplace civility and a powerful concept of Ubuntu. A transcendent African philosophy, Ubuntu represent the power of human connectedness, compassion, kindness, and togetherness. It was the central theme of his speech on that day, and it also serves as the central theme of this book. He hopes that it becomes a rallying cry on his journey.
Among the subjects that Richards covers are developing empathy through curiosity; the beliefs that destroy connection (and what to do about them); the eight keys to Ubuntu at work; four ways you can cultivate more warmth as a leader; resilience and digging deep to keep moving forward; standing up to bigotry, hate, and intolerance; and more. Richards writes, “The only thing that is required of us to stop the recurring pattern of the painful lessons of the past is to commit to go together from this point forward.”
240 pages, Hardcover
Published April 25, 2023
34 people are currently reading
315 people want to read
About the author
Shola Richards
4 books30 followersShola Richards is the CEO and Founder of Go Together Global®, the author of three books, and he is leading the movement to remind the world that we are defined by how we treat each other. Shola’s work has been featured on the Today Show, Forbes, Black Enterprise, Complete Wellbeing India, Business Insider Australia, and his tireless efforts to make the world a kinder place have earned him the well-deserved nickname, “Brother Teresa”.
As a speaker, Shola has shared his transformative message with Fortune 500 companies, top universities, leading healthcare organizations, the motion picture industry, on the TEDx stage, and in his greatest honor to date, in September 2021, he was invited to testify in front of the House of Representatives on Capitol Hill to share his expert recommendations on how to bring more civility to Congress. He’ll be the first to tell you that they could use a refresher course 😁.
Last, but certainly not least, Shola is a father, husband, identical twin, and a self-professed “kindness extremist” who will not rest until bullying and incivility is extinct from the American workplace.
As a speaker, Shola has shared his transformative message with Fortune 500 companies, top universities, leading healthcare organizations, the motion picture industry, on the TEDx stage, and in his greatest honor to date, in September 2021, he was invited to testify in front of the House of Representatives on Capitol Hill to share his expert recommendations on how to bring more civility to Congress. He’ll be the first to tell you that they could use a refresher course 😁.
Last, but certainly not least, Shola is a father, husband, identical twin, and a self-professed “kindness extremist” who will not rest until bullying and incivility is extinct from the American workplace.
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November 25, 2018
See the full review at A Review of Shola Richards' GO TOGETHER.
I have a few close work colleagues—friends, really—who I go to for support, consolation, venting, and laughs. The group of us get together regularly for tea or lunch to discuss the usual work topics, to compare notes about the latest gossip, and to exchange advice.
Most of the time our discussions are lively, positive, and proactive. But we have found that when we allow ourselves to sit in our frustration with a climate that we find challenging at times, our meetings can devolve into more bitching and less action. We all recognize we need to vent but also that it’s important to not walk away feeling defeated or full of negativity. So when one of these colleagues suggested we read Shola Richards’ Go Together: How the Concept of Ubuntu Will Change How You Live, Work, and Lead, I was intrigued.
While not for everyone, self-help-type books do have a place on my bookshelves. I am always looking for new ways to manage my depression and anxiety, practice mindfulness, declutter my home, or grow my leadership skills.
The book stood out to me because it is based on the concept of ubuntu, which I became familiar with in 2009 when I first traveled to South Africa. As Richards explains, ubuntu is often translated as. “I am, because we are” (page xv). It is also related to the African proverb, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together” (page xiv).
In his book, Richards applies this philosophy of compassion, kindness, and unity to both personal and work lives.
Shola Richards is a speaker, writer, and trainer who is all about positivity. While I consider myself a pretty positive person and open to these types of methods, I knew a couple members of my group would be tougher sells than me. And as is true for many self-help books, this one toes the line of becoming a bit too saccharine at times, especially for those who tend towards skepticism (or sarcasm). But just as the book is about to descend into a refrain of “Kumbaya,” Richards brings it on back with realistic suggestions about applying ubuntu to work, like doing more of what toxic colleagues hate most and not being as asshat, especially when in a leadership role.
Throughout the book, Richards gives the reader concrete examples, often telling anecdotes from his own life. The sharing of his own imperfections, fears, and vulnerabilities is effective in gaining the reader’s trust and understanding. Richards also provides pragmatic suggestions for the solutions he champions, including ways to build empathy, to practice ubuntu, and to act instead of standing by and letting fear take over. His advice centers on “Eight Keys to Unlocking Ubuntu at Work,” which are straightforward reminders like “Address It,” “Honor It,” and “Own It” with helpful explanations of each.
Overall, the book sparked a discussion for my group that was valuable to me. It offers practical suggestions for ways to improve work relationships and empowers the reader to try them. With chapters on healing yourself, being present, becoming a kind leader, building resilience, managing bullies, and more, there is something for everyone in this book. While the message of the book — be a decent person to build a better world — is not new, the concept of ubuntu may be to many readers in the US and may impact them in ways previous frameworks have not.
I would recommend this book to those looking to improve the culture and climate at their workplaces. Reading it with a group can be a proactive way to apply the suggestions in your daily work life and to have a support system in place for the journey.
I have a few close work colleagues—friends, really—who I go to for support, consolation, venting, and laughs. The group of us get together regularly for tea or lunch to discuss the usual work topics, to compare notes about the latest gossip, and to exchange advice.
Most of the time our discussions are lively, positive, and proactive. But we have found that when we allow ourselves to sit in our frustration with a climate that we find challenging at times, our meetings can devolve into more bitching and less action. We all recognize we need to vent but also that it’s important to not walk away feeling defeated or full of negativity. So when one of these colleagues suggested we read Shola Richards’ Go Together: How the Concept of Ubuntu Will Change How You Live, Work, and Lead, I was intrigued.
While not for everyone, self-help-type books do have a place on my bookshelves. I am always looking for new ways to manage my depression and anxiety, practice mindfulness, declutter my home, or grow my leadership skills.
The book stood out to me because it is based on the concept of ubuntu, which I became familiar with in 2009 when I first traveled to South Africa. As Richards explains, ubuntu is often translated as. “I am, because we are” (page xv). It is also related to the African proverb, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together” (page xiv).
In his book, Richards applies this philosophy of compassion, kindness, and unity to both personal and work lives.
Shola Richards is a speaker, writer, and trainer who is all about positivity. While I consider myself a pretty positive person and open to these types of methods, I knew a couple members of my group would be tougher sells than me. And as is true for many self-help books, this one toes the line of becoming a bit too saccharine at times, especially for those who tend towards skepticism (or sarcasm). But just as the book is about to descend into a refrain of “Kumbaya,” Richards brings it on back with realistic suggestions about applying ubuntu to work, like doing more of what toxic colleagues hate most and not being as asshat, especially when in a leadership role.
Throughout the book, Richards gives the reader concrete examples, often telling anecdotes from his own life. The sharing of his own imperfections, fears, and vulnerabilities is effective in gaining the reader’s trust and understanding. Richards also provides pragmatic suggestions for the solutions he champions, including ways to build empathy, to practice ubuntu, and to act instead of standing by and letting fear take over. His advice centers on “Eight Keys to Unlocking Ubuntu at Work,” which are straightforward reminders like “Address It,” “Honor It,” and “Own It” with helpful explanations of each.
Overall, the book sparked a discussion for my group that was valuable to me. It offers practical suggestions for ways to improve work relationships and empowers the reader to try them. With chapters on healing yourself, being present, becoming a kind leader, building resilience, managing bullies, and more, there is something for everyone in this book. While the message of the book — be a decent person to build a better world — is not new, the concept of ubuntu may be to many readers in the US and may impact them in ways previous frameworks have not.
I would recommend this book to those looking to improve the culture and climate at their workplaces. Reading it with a group can be a proactive way to apply the suggestions in your daily work life and to have a support system in place for the journey.
March 11, 2023
I inhaled this book cover to cover because it’s exactly the book I have been wanting to read for a long time. The concept of Ubuntu has been explained well with the author’s own horrible experiences at different workplaces.
I have been quite naive believing that working alone would make things go faster and better. However, we realise it quite late that we alone cannot go farther if not it’s working well with others.
Definitely a must read recommendation for beginners and for those who are already working. It’s never too late to learn I say!
Three parts with twelve chapters. Yes, we have got amazing content here!
Thank you, Advantage Media Group - ForbesBooks, for the advance reading copy.
I have been quite naive believing that working alone would make things go faster and better. However, we realise it quite late that we alone cannot go farther if not it’s working well with others.
Definitely a must read recommendation for beginners and for those who are already working. It’s never too late to learn I say!
Three parts with twelve chapters. Yes, we have got amazing content here!
Thank you, Advantage Media Group - ForbesBooks, for the advance reading copy.
April 26, 2022
Very thought-provoking.
September 13, 2020
Shola always reminds us that we have to be continually active to affect change.
July 7, 2024
With the book Go Together, the author encourages readers to join him in his mission of creating a world driven by ‘Ubuntu’. Before this book, Ubuntu was just an operating system for me, but now it’s a concept I want to keep remembering.
Ubuntu means, as the author states in the book, ‘I am because we are’. It represents the power of human connectedness, kindness, compassion, and togetherness. The book explores why we should incorporate this principle into the way we live, work, and lead.
🎯 The book addresses real-world problems with facts, data, and statistics, all with cited sources. (That’s one reason I want you to pick this one up.)
🙌 The concept, flow, simplicity, and narration of the book are well done.
🫠 I was expecting the book to have more practical tips and tasks to help incorporate the philosophy, but I was disappointed there. Additionally, I would have loved more explanation and tasks on self-awareness, because change starts from within.
🧞♀️ One thing I loved is that the author kept it practical. It didn’t feel like I was reading a book on moral values without practical application. Furthermore, the personal stories the author shared amplify the message.
IN A NUTSHELL
Go Together shows how the concept of Ubuntu—‘I am because we are’—can change how we live, work, and lead. Through real-world examples and personal stories, Shola Richards explains why embracing kindness, compassion, and togetherness is essential for a better world.
Recommend? YES! I want everyone to read this unique book with a beautiful message to share in a world where we are struggling to keep it together.
Ubuntu means, as the author states in the book, ‘I am because we are’. It represents the power of human connectedness, kindness, compassion, and togetherness. The book explores why we should incorporate this principle into the way we live, work, and lead.
🎯 The book addresses real-world problems with facts, data, and statistics, all with cited sources. (That’s one reason I want you to pick this one up.)
🙌 The concept, flow, simplicity, and narration of the book are well done.
🫠 I was expecting the book to have more practical tips and tasks to help incorporate the philosophy, but I was disappointed there. Additionally, I would have loved more explanation and tasks on self-awareness, because change starts from within.
🧞♀️ One thing I loved is that the author kept it practical. It didn’t feel like I was reading a book on moral values without practical application. Furthermore, the personal stories the author shared amplify the message.
IN A NUTSHELL
Go Together shows how the concept of Ubuntu—‘I am because we are’—can change how we live, work, and lead. Through real-world examples and personal stories, Shola Richards explains why embracing kindness, compassion, and togetherness is essential for a better world.
Recommend? YES! I want everyone to read this unique book with a beautiful message to share in a world where we are struggling to keep it together.
April 28, 2023
I was fortunate enough to hear Shola speak in person, at a work function. I immediately signed up for his Monday morning "Hard Hitting Positivity" email. I love that it comes Monday morning, so I can read it before starting my day.
The concept of "going together" has really spoken to me. It is important to me to make every day kinder and every interaction one that will be positive, even if I have to say "no".
Will be reading his other books next.
The concept of "going together" has really spoken to me. It is important to me to make every day kinder and every interaction one that will be positive, even if I have to say "no".
Will be reading his other books next.
Read
May 21, 2024In "Go Together," Shola Richards offers a refreshing take on team dynamics and personal growth, centered around the African philosophy of Ubuntu. This self-help book isn't just about achieving individual success; it's about fostering a collective spirit that benefits everyone involved, both professionally and personally.
At its core, "Go Together" advocates for empathy as the cornerstone of effective teamwork. Through thought-provoking anecdotes and practical exercises, readers are encouraged to develop a genuine curiosity about others, paving the way for deeper connections and mutual understanding. By challenging destructive beliefs and fostering a culture of respect, the book lays out a roadmap for creating positive work environments where everyone feels valued and heard.
One of the book's strengths lies in its actionable insights. From the eight keys to practicing Ubuntu in the workplace to strategies for cultivating warmth as a leader, each chapter offers tangible steps for readers to implement in their own lives. Whether you're a seasoned executive or a recent graduate entering the workforce, "Go Together" provides valuable tools for building stronger relationships and navigating conflicts with grace and compassion.
Moreover, "Go Together" doesn't shy away from addressing broader societal issues. In a world plagued by divisiveness and intolerance, the book encourages readers to stand up against bigotry and hate, promoting inclusivity and social justice as integral components of Ubuntu. By embracing diversity and championing empathy, the author argues, we can create a more harmonious and equitable society for all.
While some self-help books can feel overly prescriptive or detached from reality, "Go Together" strikes a perfect balance between inspiration and practicality. Through its relatable anecdotes and straightforward advice, the book empowers readers to become agents of positive change in their own lives and communities.
In conclusion, "Go Together" is a timely and thought-provoking read for anyone seeking to enhance their interpersonal skills and cultivate a more compassionate approach to work and leadership. By embracing the principles of Ubuntu, readers will not only unlock their full potential but also contribute to a more connected and inclusive world.
At its core, "Go Together" advocates for empathy as the cornerstone of effective teamwork. Through thought-provoking anecdotes and practical exercises, readers are encouraged to develop a genuine curiosity about others, paving the way for deeper connections and mutual understanding. By challenging destructive beliefs and fostering a culture of respect, the book lays out a roadmap for creating positive work environments where everyone feels valued and heard.
One of the book's strengths lies in its actionable insights. From the eight keys to practicing Ubuntu in the workplace to strategies for cultivating warmth as a leader, each chapter offers tangible steps for readers to implement in their own lives. Whether you're a seasoned executive or a recent graduate entering the workforce, "Go Together" provides valuable tools for building stronger relationships and navigating conflicts with grace and compassion.
Moreover, "Go Together" doesn't shy away from addressing broader societal issues. In a world plagued by divisiveness and intolerance, the book encourages readers to stand up against bigotry and hate, promoting inclusivity and social justice as integral components of Ubuntu. By embracing diversity and championing empathy, the author argues, we can create a more harmonious and equitable society for all.
While some self-help books can feel overly prescriptive or detached from reality, "Go Together" strikes a perfect balance between inspiration and practicality. Through its relatable anecdotes and straightforward advice, the book empowers readers to become agents of positive change in their own lives and communities.
In conclusion, "Go Together" is a timely and thought-provoking read for anyone seeking to enhance their interpersonal skills and cultivate a more compassionate approach to work and leadership. By embracing the principles of Ubuntu, readers will not only unlock their full potential but also contribute to a more connected and inclusive world.
August 19, 2023
Phenomenal! Truly, the concept of the African word "ubuntu" (meaning "I am, because we are") can bring us together in a powerful way. Wading through the toxicity that is our current state of societal being, Shola Richards brings awareness to the issues at hand and a path to move forward toward unity, for the good of us all.
Starting with himself, he urges us to do the hard work of personal growth so we can be all we can for the collective us. Reshaping our mindsets to view the whole of humanity as a part of ourselves, and likewise ourselves as a connected part of the whole of humanity, we see how our attitudes and actions towards others either encourage kindness or violence and we have the power to choose which one! Will we love out of a place of fear or of love? Join me and Shola in this revolutionary practice that will bring healing to our world and workplaces, creating safe spaces for the individual, and concurrently the whole, to flourish. We are communal beings, and we exist for connection! Let's not separate ourselves from each other any longer! ("If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." - African proverb)
Starting with himself, he urges us to do the hard work of personal growth so we can be all we can for the collective us. Reshaping our mindsets to view the whole of humanity as a part of ourselves, and likewise ourselves as a connected part of the whole of humanity, we see how our attitudes and actions towards others either encourage kindness or violence and we have the power to choose which one! Will we love out of a place of fear or of love? Join me and Shola in this revolutionary practice that will bring healing to our world and workplaces, creating safe spaces for the individual, and concurrently the whole, to flourish. We are communal beings, and we exist for connection! Let's not separate ourselves from each other any longer! ("If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." - African proverb)
September 16, 2018
It’s amazing how sometimes life gives us exactly the right book for the moment we’re in. The ARC of Go Together has been sitting on my shelf for nearly 3 months (I was given a free copy by the publisher at ALA 2018). I read it in one sitting tonight & it spoke to my soul. It was exactly what I needed in my life at this exact moment. I feel like I should write the author a thank you note. If you're struggling with coping with negativity in your workplace, reeling and disillusioned by current politics and/or world events, or just concerned about the decline of civility in contemporary society, give Go Together a try. If you're a leader of a workplace, consider Go Together (or at least chapters 7-9) required reading for your sake and the sake of those you lead.
December 22, 2018
"I believe that all of us have moments when the going gets tough, and quitting is far more appealing than soldiering on....there is nothing easy about any of this. Quitting or-equally as ineffective-leaving this work to someone else, will accomplish nothing. You are needed to keep pushing forward, even when you do not feel like it or when the path ahead does not seem clear."
At first this book seem somewhat fool-hardy to me, Ubuntu seemed too optimistic in a world that seemed dead set on destroying itself.
But he managed to change my mind. I think everyone should take a chance on this book. It won't be easy, as he has said many times in this book, but in the end (hopefully) it will be worth it.
At first this book seem somewhat fool-hardy to me, Ubuntu seemed too optimistic in a world that seemed dead set on destroying itself.
But he managed to change my mind. I think everyone should take a chance on this book. It won't be easy, as he has said many times in this book, but in the end (hopefully) it will be worth it.
March 13, 2021
This book helped me clarify my core values. The first time I read it, I was working in online graduate education. It helped me crystalize the way in which I thought students and faculty needed to be treated -- as human beings worthy of value. Page after page included insights that inspired me. Perhaps I am a life coach today, in part, because of this book.
Here's a seminal quote:
"When we are committed to the well-being and happiness of another person, we are kind, we are generous, we are helpful, we are respectful, we are forgiving, we are supportive, and, most of all, we are connected" (p. 57).
Here's a seminal quote:
"When we are committed to the well-being and happiness of another person, we are kind, we are generous, we are helpful, we are respectful, we are forgiving, we are supportive, and, most of all, we are connected" (p. 57).
July 27, 2019
If everyone would read this book....if everyone would work to understand and live its message, the world would be a thousand times better. What I do affects you. What you do affects me. I can go fast, but together, we can go farther. This is one of those books I took notes on, because I always want to remember its wisdom. This is a relatively brief, eminently readable volume that I highly recommend to all thinking people. I just love it.
August 27, 2019
Book Review. Please read Go Together by Shola Richards for an inspiring call to arms regarding what I believe is a need for more kindness and civility in our world. It’s based on the idea of Ubuntu: “I am because we are.” It’s also based on the proverb, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” This author spoke to me through these remarkable pages. I plan to buy my own copy and give it the conversational mark-up it deserves.
November 20, 2018
super-repetitive but some good anecdotes bolstering his recommendation that we could all be kinder and more loving toward one another at work, placing the team above our individual needs to take credit and deflect blame. Dilbert's boss is obviously not an Ubuntu leader, but many of us in the real world as well could stand to improve in this regard.
May 16, 2024
"Nothing goes away until it has taught us what we need to know." Pema Chodron. Well it is a little weak on structure, but I suppose Rodney King would have been happy to have been holding this in his hand when he firmly stated can't we all just get along. Sadly, there appear to be a rather large slice of society whose answer is "No."
April 14, 2019
A positive message, but repetitive. Maybe the repetition is meant to reinforce learning.
December 5, 2020
For work.
September 18, 2021
Wish more people would live their lives using these principles. The world would be a much better place…
June 24, 2021
The philosophy of Ubuntu is a powerful vision for the future. However, I feel that the way it was framed in this book underestimates the timescale on which such a change can occur.
July 25, 2020
3.5 stars
June 4, 2024
In “Go Together,” Shola Richards offers a refreshing take on team dynamics and personal growth, centered around the African philosophy of Ubuntu. This self-help book isn’t just about achieving individual success; it’s about fostering a collective spirit that benefits everyone involved, both professionally and personally.
At its core, “Go Together” advocates for empathy as the cornerstone of effective teamwork. Through thought-provoking anecdotes and practical exercises, readers are encouraged to develop a genuine curiosity about others, paving the way for deeper connections and mutual understanding. By challenging destructive beliefs and fostering a culture of respect, the book lays out a roadmap for creating positive work environments where everyone feels valued and heard.
One of the book’s strengths lies in its actionable insights. From the eight keys to practicing Ubuntu in the workplace to strategies for cultivating warmth as a leader, each chapter offers tangible steps for readers to implement in their own lives. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or a recent graduate entering the workforce, “Go Together” provides valuable tools for building stronger relationships and navigating conflicts with grace and compassion.
Moreover, “Go Together” doesn’t shy away from addressing broader societal issues. In a world plagued by divisiveness and intolerance, the book encourages readers to stand up against bigotry and hate, promoting inclusivity and social justice as integral components of Ubuntu. By embracing diversity and championing empathy, the author argues, we can create a more harmonious and equitable society for all.
While some self-help books can feel overly prescriptive or detached from reality, “Go Together” strikes a perfect balance between inspiration and practicality. Through its relatable anecdotes and straightforward advice, the book empowers readers to become agents of positive change in their own lives and communities.
In conclusion, “Go Together” is a timely and thought-provoking read for anyone seeking to enhance their interpersonal skills and cultivate a more compassionate approach to work and leadership. By embracing the principles of Ubuntu, readers will not only unlock their full potential but also contribute to a more connected and inclusive world.
At its core, “Go Together” advocates for empathy as the cornerstone of effective teamwork. Through thought-provoking anecdotes and practical exercises, readers are encouraged to develop a genuine curiosity about others, paving the way for deeper connections and mutual understanding. By challenging destructive beliefs and fostering a culture of respect, the book lays out a roadmap for creating positive work environments where everyone feels valued and heard.
One of the book’s strengths lies in its actionable insights. From the eight keys to practicing Ubuntu in the workplace to strategies for cultivating warmth as a leader, each chapter offers tangible steps for readers to implement in their own lives. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or a recent graduate entering the workforce, “Go Together” provides valuable tools for building stronger relationships and navigating conflicts with grace and compassion.
Moreover, “Go Together” doesn’t shy away from addressing broader societal issues. In a world plagued by divisiveness and intolerance, the book encourages readers to stand up against bigotry and hate, promoting inclusivity and social justice as integral components of Ubuntu. By embracing diversity and championing empathy, the author argues, we can create a more harmonious and equitable society for all.
While some self-help books can feel overly prescriptive or detached from reality, “Go Together” strikes a perfect balance between inspiration and practicality. Through its relatable anecdotes and straightforward advice, the book empowers readers to become agents of positive change in their own lives and communities.
In conclusion, “Go Together” is a timely and thought-provoking read for anyone seeking to enhance their interpersonal skills and cultivate a more compassionate approach to work and leadership. By embracing the principles of Ubuntu, readers will not only unlock their full potential but also contribute to a more connected and inclusive world.
April 24, 2023
Shola is a gifted and inspiring speaker (I had first seen him talk several years ago at a work conference), and diving into "Go Together" was a well needed call to action this day and age. It is a must-read book for anyone interested in creating a more inclusive and compassionate workplace culture. His writing style is relatable, and his advice is both practical and thought-provoking.
The emphasis on the importance of empathy and emotional intelligence in leadership is really important. Shola argues that these qualities are key to building a culture where everyone feels valued and respected, and he provides numerous examples of how this can play out in real-life situations. And when everyone feels valued and respected, we are are better, together.
With a focus on actionable steps, rather than simply pointing out problems, Shola provides concrete strategies for addressing them, even if they challenge you personally to take the first step! Right down to how to handle difficult conversations, which is something I think many people including me struggle with.
Overall, I highly recommend "Go Together" to anyone who wants to make a positive impact not only in their workplace, but in the world. This is a book that will have a permanent spot in my bookshelf and I'll refer back to often.
The emphasis on the importance of empathy and emotional intelligence in leadership is really important. Shola argues that these qualities are key to building a culture where everyone feels valued and respected, and he provides numerous examples of how this can play out in real-life situations. And when everyone feels valued and respected, we are are better, together.
With a focus on actionable steps, rather than simply pointing out problems, Shola provides concrete strategies for addressing them, even if they challenge you personally to take the first step! Right down to how to handle difficult conversations, which is something I think many people including me struggle with.
Overall, I highly recommend "Go Together" to anyone who wants to make a positive impact not only in their workplace, but in the world. This is a book that will have a permanent spot in my bookshelf and I'll refer back to often.
May 7, 2023
I must admit that I did not anticipate the depth into which this book delves. As I read each challenge that Shola Richards poses to the reader, I started to feel a combination of inspiration and resistance. I was inspired because I want to go far, and Shola Richards clearly explains why and how we must go together.
The resistance, on the other had, was coming from my own self-absorption and self-centeredness. I suppose that everyone has some level of these two characteristics. Nonetheless, Shola Richards challenges us to abandon them because they create fear and, in the end, they hold us back. In very understandable and relatable terms, Shola Richards describes how they hold us back and what me must do to move beyond them.
Otherwise, I thought initially that it would be a quick read. However, if I want to truly grasp the lessons presented in it, I must read slower. As I go along, I have to practice what Shola Richards describes before I get to the next mind-opening chapter.
The resistance, on the other had, was coming from my own self-absorption and self-centeredness. I suppose that everyone has some level of these two characteristics. Nonetheless, Shola Richards challenges us to abandon them because they create fear and, in the end, they hold us back. In very understandable and relatable terms, Shola Richards describes how they hold us back and what me must do to move beyond them.
Otherwise, I thought initially that it would be a quick read. However, if I want to truly grasp the lessons presented in it, I must read slower. As I go along, I have to practice what Shola Richards describes before I get to the next mind-opening chapter.
May 30, 2023
Before I review this book, a confession: I began reading with the assumption that the death of civility was due to other people’s shortcomings. So right in Chapter 1 I was hit with a hard truth. The author writes that research shows 94% of Americans believe they are usually/always polite and respectful. And yet we 75% of Americans believe that incivility has reached crisis levels. The author ties these two facts together to show that self-awareness is at the root of the problem – meaning ME. That got my attention, and I read the book with an entirely different frame of mind. That was just the first of many epiphanies this book delivered. Richards uses personal stories and others’ stories to illustrate points in a memorable and sometimes heart-wrenching manner. The blend is eminently readable, useful, sobering and uplifting. In short, I think reading this book will make you a better person. It gave me a lot of food for thought, and tools to put into practice.
April 23, 2023
I bought Shola’s first book, Making Work Work, because I needed help with overcoming workplace bullying. It was just what I needed to read when I was at the absolute lowest part of my career. When I found out he had another book, I knew I had to read this as well, especially in the chaotic world we live in today. He explains Ubuntu so clearly and even guides you with how to embrace it completely and wholeheartedly in your life. Any question or doubt you have, he addresses as well. He’s an author that knew what I was thinking and addressed all of my what if’s. I hope to move forward with my life with a commitment to change the way I lead my life.
April 25, 2023
This is a must read!
I read Shola’s first book “Making Work Work”, which helped me through a difficult time in my career.
Fast forward to today. I no longer deal with work incivility because I’m currently unemployed, but that doesn’t mean everyone around has good manners (just watch the news or accidentally wait two seconds at a green light).
Shola’s book here “Go Together” reminded me that I can and should still strive to make a positive difference. I don’t need a job to go help others. Our world (not just the workplace) needs us to understand and live the concept of Ubuntu.
I highly recommend this inspiring and engaging book!
I read Shola’s first book “Making Work Work”, which helped me through a difficult time in my career.
Fast forward to today. I no longer deal with work incivility because I’m currently unemployed, but that doesn’t mean everyone around has good manners (just watch the news or accidentally wait two seconds at a green light).
Shola’s book here “Go Together” reminded me that I can and should still strive to make a positive difference. I don’t need a job to go help others. Our world (not just the workplace) needs us to understand and live the concept of Ubuntu.
I highly recommend this inspiring and engaging book!
April 28, 2023
I have received Shola Richards' Monday positivity emails for a few years now. I was so excited to read one of his books and it did not disappoint! I loved learning about how the concept of Ubuntu can permeate every aspect of your life from work to home to dealing with strangers. He writes with a passion and sincerity that is hard to find. It's rare to find someone who truly wants to "make the world a better place"--he really does! All leaders should read this book and apply his anecdotes, lessons, and observations for a better and more compassionate world. Bravo!
April 27, 2023
Go Together is a must read for anyone who has witnessed injustice in their personal or professional life. Shola is a gifted storyteller who is able to inspire action through sharing his wisdom and vulnerability. He clearly outlines the steps to build a foundation of Ubuntu leadership. It is an engaging book filled with practical advice that benefits us all. Highly recommend.
May 1, 2023
This is a MUST read for what is ailing us today. Meanness, anger, hostility, and road rage is plaguing our society. Shola shares riveting incidents and events that he has lived through that led him to write this book. His positivity and belief in Ubuntu gives us hope and will inspire us to change when we decide to “go together.”
April 20, 2023
Go Together is a book to heal our troubled times. Shola’s inspiring words, relatable reflections and profound yet tangible insights gave me hope that I have the power within me to make changes in our world.
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