Disruptive Thinking: A Daring Strategy to Change How We Live, Lead, and Love

by T.D. Jakes

*A NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER!*

Think differently and find the courage to challenge the status quo with this mindset-shifting guide to meaningful change.

For most of our lives, we are encouraged to trudge along the well-worn paths of those who have come before us. We learn the rules – in our families, in our schools, in our workplaces, in our churches – and most of the messages we receive tell us that following the rules will allow us to arrive at the lives we desire. 
 
But when change becomes not only desirable but also urgently necessary, this way of being no longer serves us. In fact, in every human endeavor, every major leap forward, has involved a cataclysmic challenge to existing ways of thinking and being. Breakthroughs, by definition, run against the grain and almost always encounter skepticism and opposition. 
 
In this book for leaders, thinkers, doers, and creators, Bishop T.D. Jakes illuminates the pathway to encouraging and unleashing disruptive thinking and provides the wisdom and practical skills we need to evolve our most original and potentially transformational ideas from vision to reality. Through his insight into how our minds and emotions work and through his experiences as a pastor, entrepreneur, and creator, Bishop Jakes leads us into a new way of relating to and transforming the world around us for good. Disruptive Thinking will show you the mindset and the tools you need to create groundbreaking and meaningful change in your own life and in the world around you.

A Study Guide is also available for purchase. 

Genres: Self Help, Nonfiction, Audiobook, Christian, Philosophy, Business, Leadership

236 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 9, 2023

About the author

Bishop T.D. Jakes is the author of the bestsellers God's Leading Lady; The Lady, Her Lover and Her Lord; Maximize the Moment; The Great Investment; His Lady; Woman, Thou art Loosed (the film of which won the Best Film Award at the Santa Barbara Film Festival) and He-Motions. His daily morning show The Potter's Touch and weekly broadcast The Potter's House air on Trinity Broadcasting Network and Black Entertainment Television, as well as in Europe and South America. Bishop Jakes is the founder and pastor of The Potter's House, one of the fastest-growing churches in the nation, where he leads an interracial congregation of more than 28,000 members. He lives in Dallas with his wife and five children.

Reviews

[Jessica · Rating 1 out of 5]

I was excited about this and had a hard time getting through it. Made it about 1/3 of the way and decided to call it quits. Listened on audio and loved the author's voice (I sped it up). Had a hard time following how the chapters related to the title. It felt part biography, part scripture recitation, and part how-to-start a non-profit with less about how to actually use disruptive thinking or gain confidence in becoming a disruptor beyond the introduction.

[Kim · Rating 3 out of 5]

I watched an interview with Pr. Jakes and was impressed to check out this book. The interview was inspiring. The book had several great “sound bites” but there was no “OMGoodness I’m sharing this!” In it for me. I appreciate the work. If you read 2-3 books per year, this won’t be a bad choice. If you read 50, it’s not a bad choice. If you read 1 . . . I might make other recos depending on your interest and motivation to read that 1 book. ;)

[Gregory Allen · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars.

This is my first read of Bishop TD Jakes. There is no debate that Bishop is one of the greatest orators and writers of our time. This book is full of wisdom about what it takes to be a modern-day disrupter in an ever-changing society. I was able to pull alot of great quotes and aphorisms.

I wish Bishop TD Jakes would have shared more of his own personal experiences about the obstacles he endured on the road to being a disrupter, especially in ministry. The book could have been a little bit longer and gone into even more depth.

[sondre steinde · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book, at times, can feel more as a humblebrag by T.D. Jakes more than an actual book about how to achieve disruptive thinking.

The overall impression was good however.

[Octavia · Rating 5 out of 5]

10 Stars! ⭐️

"Disruptive Thinkers may not always be the easiest to manage or to lead because their very nature is to peer outside of the box; looking
for a different way."

An extremely Authoriative book this World is needed for such a Time as this..

T.D. Jakes presents a guide to help with Faith along with actual Testimonial essays for those that haven't ever felt like they were part of the Norm, or thought like the Norm.. This one is for You!

Because Life does truly keep changing and this World is Ever Changing!! Truly Impeccable.🧡

[Dewayne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Prior to reading this book I had not been well versed in the full background and impact of Bishop T.D. Jakes. I knew him as pastor of a mega church in Texas who grew up in West Virginia. His humbled beginnings and multi industry impact were foreign to me. It's that background of limited understanding that contributed to what I enjoyed most about reading this book on disruptive thinking. The box I had placed Bishop Jakes in was limiting and through the reading of this book I learned more on his ministry which expands beyond the pulpit far into the local, national, and global community. This is best reflected at the end of the book with the individual highlights of what I would call a "who's who's" list of individuals in all walks of life living out disruptive thinking.

While I found this book encouraging and inspiring it also challenged me to question myself as a disrupter thinker or am I supporting/raising disrupter thinker(s)? This question brought a level of discomfort for me in a world which at times feels like there is always a standard to chase, a box to be checked, or a dream to achieve. Perhaps it is that discomfort and the rush of feeling challenged that makes this a great read.

[RJ Schafer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great, powerful book, but I expected just a little more. Jakes gets very personal at times in this piece, but it lacks the long-term depth to be personal enough to be a life-changing title. I would definitely recommend it, as the power behind his words is quite strong, and he does give some very sound advice on what it truly means to be “disruptive”.

Some very personal and relatable tidbits that touched my heart strings in here too.

[Christal Hughes]

The book was very thought provoking, if you start reading you really have to make time to read as a homework assignment and process what you are learning from chapter to chapter and how to apply it if you can to your life

[Jung · Rating 5 out of 5]

Embrace disruption to overcome adversity.

Picture this: You’re facing a challenge that feels like a towering wall separating you from your goals. You could retreat to seek familiar habits to dodge the issue. But you don’t. Instead, you lace up your boots and size up the wall, feeling uncomfortable yet excited. Why? Because you can see the potential for solutions instead of a dead end.

See what you just did there? You recognized disruption, the driving force behind true, transformative growth.

In this book by T. D. Jakes, Disruptive Thinking, we’ll look at disruption from a Christian perspective. According to Jakes, disruption is a divinely guided event that happens for two reasons. First, it summons the leader in us, and compels us to reassess and shift our individual situations. And second, it invites us to see differences between ourselves and others as opportunities for unity, collaboration, and innovation.

By the end of this book, you’ll better understand why disruptions are especially relevant today – and know how to leverage disruptive people in your life, navigate the challenges posed by impactful changes, and manage other disruptors for happiness and success.

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Real change starts with disruptive thinking

Disruptive thinking, or the ability to think outside of the box in the face of unexpected changes, is more relevant than ever today.

Consider these three scenarios: A hardworking rural man facing the harsh reality of dwindling job opportunities. A single mother stretching every penny to feed her family as her wages lose their purchasing power. A middle-class employee watching her rich employer ride around in private helicopters while she’s getting her health insurance slashed.

What do these situations have in common? Two words – wealth inequality. It’s a growing chasm that is the cause of frustration and distrust worldwide. According to the Economic Policy Institute, a typical CEO of an American company currently makes over 399 times more than their average worker.

But author T. D. Jakes suggests that God doesn’t let people go through more burden than they can bear – and the most divine way to overcome this single most pervasive issue that divides people is through disruptive thinking.

Disruptive thinking isn’t some fancy buzzword. In fact, it’s a lifeline for many. This mindset provides hope and encourages people to explore possibilities beyond their current circumstances. When you consider the gift of choice, you realize that being poor, for instance, doesn’t necessitate staying in hostile neighborhoods. Often, a change of environment can be the first step toward a better life – which people can only take when they dare to embrace their innate capability to think differently.

Geoffrey Canada is the perfect embodiment of disruptive thinking. Growing up in the South Bronx, he realized no superhero was coming to rescue him from his harsh surroundings. Instead of wallowing in despair, he committed to transforming the lives of urban kids, thereby shattering the prevailing mindset that little could be done to help them.

And that’s the beauty of disruptive thinking – it can empower you to transform your environment and life. You don’t have to experience poverty to recognize and leverage the power of disruptive thinking. In your own life, it can be as small as repainting your living room to as big as leaving a toxic relationship or shifting your career. What matters is that you’re willing to shake up any areas of stagnancy and seize change as immediately as you can picture it.

It’s worth noting that pursuing disruption isn’t at all about the pursuit of material comfort. The point is that everyone, including you, has a God-given right to live a good life. If you’re not there yet, you can change your circumstances – and real change starts with action.

Now, what happens when disruptive thinking extends beyond the individual level? We’ll soon find out in the next section.

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Leverage unlikely alliances for success

Ever felt like you’re an army of one, trying to turn the tide all on your own? Well, you’re not alone. But here’s a disruptive thought: disruption isn’t a one-person show. It’s a team effort, involving unlikely alliances and diverse groups coming together.

Remember the story of Cyrus in the Bible? Isaiah, the prophet, foretold his rise to power and benevolence to the Jews 150 years before Cyrus was even born. This was a display of God’s sovereignty over nations, as he stated, “He is my shepherd and will accomplish all that I please.”

Now, why are we talking about a Persian king in a conversation about disruption? Because the most disruptive part of this story isn’t just the prophecy – it’s Cyrus’s ability to form alliances and collaborations, subdue nations, and create an environment of benevolence and progress. And he did this without even acknowledging God, as Isaiah tells us.

That’s the core message here – disruption often requires alliances that seem unlikely and partnerships that go beyond what is conventional or expected. Just as Cyrus, who didn’t recognize God, was used as a vessel for change, disruptive partnerships can also come from unexpected places and have an impact that resonates throughout centuries.

These partnerships are all around us. Think about the major differences between you and your spouse, friends, and colleagues. We’re all unique, yet we coexist – embracing our differences and learning from each other. That’s the essence of alliance, right there!

Now, let’s apply this to a broader stage, like business. Imagine you’ve got this brilliant, game-changing business idea, but it’s beyond your ability to execute it single-handedly. What do you do? You seek out partnerships. You identify those who have strengths where you have weaknesses, put aside your ego, and collaborate.

Here’s another out-of-the-box idea for effective disruption: your company decides to hire ex-offenders, going against the norm. That’s not just an act of disruption, but also a collaborative effort – an alliance formed with a whole community backing up this shift.

Speaking of collaboration, have you noticed how disruptive thinking and brainstorming often go hand in hand? Whether at a family gathering, a church event, or a board meeting, they always require various people coming together to bring different perspectives to the table.

Of course, this isn’t to say that collaboration is all sunshine and rainbows – it isn’t! Working with others demands countless hours of meetings, reshuffling schedules and relationship structures, and developing new models of thinking and doing. Above all, it requires an unwavering commitment to the vision and the grit to confront and overcome obstacles.

So there you have it. Disruption isn’t a solitary hero’s game; it’s a collective effort to achieve equanimous success for all.

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Four challenges around disruption

Making your mark as a disruptor is a journey, not a destination. To achieve lasting change in your life, you’ll need to overcome several challenges along the way: the ego, communication breakdowns, misunderstandings, and discomfort.

So first things first: How do you keep your ego in check?

The ego, otherwise known as our sense of self-importance, has an outsized influence on our actions. Often, it dampens our progress by insisting we have to be right – even when we aren’t. According to the psychological exploration of Elliot Aronson and Carol Tavris in their book Mistakes Were Made (But Not by Me), our brain is fond of self-justification. But here’s the thing: the ego can’t survive in the face of disruption, because going through a disruptive event requires humility. You can’t hit the other side of disruption without a willingness to learn and make mistakes.

Alright, let’s shift gears to our next challenge: mastering effective communication. Picture yourself tasked with the responsibility of hiring a new team member. You know the drill: it’s not just about whether the person can do the job, but whether they can keep in step with the company’s heartbeat, moving and grooving with the rhythm of the room. And here’s the kicker: your job doesn’t stop the moment they’re hired. As a leader, you need to lay out the expectations as clearly as you’d lay out a road map. If you don’t, things will start to unravel. When expectations are fuzzy, frustration can creep in and stagnation can set in like quicksand. Miscommunication, or even a single unspoken assumption, can throw a wrench in the works of a disruptive initiative. In short, good communication is key if you want to keep things flowing.

Now, here’s the third challenge we face on the way to disruption: unmasking misunderstandings by seeing subtleties in every situation. Each role or circumstance has nuances that can offer you the insights you need to make savvy decisions. Whether you’re scouting for a church sponsor or seeking a deeper friendship, those nuances are key. Want another example? Think of your mentor at work. This person should be more than just someone you look up to. She should be your cheerleader, amplifying your potential at every step. It’s essential to evaluate people based on their unique skills and experiences, not just their titles or roles. And actions always speak louder than words, either spoken or written.

Last but not least, learn to expect and embrace discomfort. The road to disruption is rarely comfortable; this challenge is all about being ready to step into the wild unknown. How? Take new risks that give you the jitters – responsibly, of course. Open yourself up to tasks you’ve never done before. When in doubt, conjure the wise words of Reinhold Niebuhr’s Serenity Prayer, which goes, “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.” Think of this statement as your secret weapon to help you withstand disruption, and keep marching toward the other side of it.

Now that you’re equipped to overcome the challenges of being a disruptor, it’s time to nip the ultimate challenge in the bud: managing other disruptors in your life.

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When other people are the disrupters

In our lives, we all seek to be acknowledged for our unique capabilities and to be seen for who we truly are. Why else did Ralph Ellison write his novel Invisible Man, if not to speak volumes about the unbearable pain of invisibility?

So whether you’re a disrupter yourself or dealing with one, it’s important to understand that the process of growth, understanding, and empowerment is especially vital in three key areas: education, marriage, and parenthood.

Have you ever had teachers or mentors who saw an untapped talent or skill you couldn’t see yourself? These folks are like archeologists – constantly exploring, relentlessly digging until a treasure is found. They likely showed you that people placed in the right place and time can always develop disruptive thinking. Case in point? T. D. Jakes’s work with AT&T involved integrating ex-offenders from the Texas Offenders Reentry Initiative (TORI) program into corporate roles. The experience showed him that given the right learning opportunities, even the most disempowered can reclaim their lives.

But the impact of disruptive thinking isn’t limited to just the workplace. It extends to our personal lives – to our relationships.

Being married to a disrupter, for one, requires a certain level of understanding and patience. It’s about respecting each other’s differences and striving to find common ground. Trust and empathy play a massive role here. From economic trust to emotional safety, every aspect holds immense value. You need to understand your partner’s feelings and ensure they feel safe to open up and express them. No one wants to open up about their radical thoughts and ideas, only to be shot down – least of all by the person they’re supposedly most intimate with!

And then there are the unique challenges of parenting a disrupter. Understanding the “why” behind a child’s disruptive behavior is crucial before reaching for a solution. Often, it’s not about quick fixes or medication but about being attentive and getting to the root cause. A disruptive child reflects disruptions within the family. Active listening is crucial here; it’s the best way to give your children room to grow around disruption. Early on, teach them to understand that roadblocks are inevitable stepping stones on the path of growth. The truth is, you can’t always protect your children from the shock of disruption – but you can always offer unconditional support as they navigate life’s ups and downs.

By embracing disruption in these leadership roles, you can ultimately transform relationship obstacles into opportunities for growth and development.

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Disruptive thinking is a great way to evolve – and evolve we must!

Every person, especially those in positions of leadership, has the power to harness disruption for growth. Adversity, arguably the most intense form of disruption, is not a barrier. As God would have it, it’s a gateway to self-discovery and profound transformation.

[Carl · Rating 3 out of 5]

I always enjoy listening to Pastor Jakes. He’s that rare individual who inspires through speech and action. However, this book, for me, didn’t provide any ground-shaking revelations. I enjoyed receiving the information though.

[Laura Zielke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Imagine a world where every obstacle becomes an opportunity, and every challenge is an invitation to create positive change. T.D. Jakes' insightful new book, Disruptive Thinking: A Daring Strategy to Change How We Live, Lead, and Love, takes us on an enlightening journey through the art and science of bold innovation and transformation.

This isn't just another self-help book; it's a rallying cry to motivate and equip anyone who wants to make a meaningful impact on the world. Disruptive Thinking will challenge you to move beyond arguments into a realm of proactive problem-solving. So, buckle up and get ready to re-evaluate how you approach life, leadership, and love!

As I dove into the first pages of my first T.D. Jakes book—he's written 35 so far!—I found myself wondering why I hadn't discovered Jakes sooner. I mean, I was highlighting passages in the preface because they resonated so deeply. For example:

"The older we get, the longer we live, the more we realize that we are born looking like our PARENTS, but we die looking like our DECISIONS."

Profound, right? I’ve gone from someone who had “heard of” but never read or listened to T.D. Jakes to someone who is a huge fan. If you’re wondering if I’ve been living under a rock, I don’t blame you. He’s amazing! If you are as unfamiliar as I was, allow me to introduce you to a world-renowned disruptor who has successfully impacted tens of millions of lives: T.D. Jakes.

According to his website, “Jakes is a real estate mogul, New York Times bestselling author, pioneering CEO and entrepreneur, global humanitarian, and a devoted philanthropist who serves communities worldwide.”

T.D. Jakes is a man of deep faith whose intentional actions and profound sense of purpose have already had tremendous positive and lasting impact in the world, and with this book, he shares a lot of hard-earned wisdom and leadership “truth bombs” for our benefit.

A Book for All, Especially Entrepreneurs of Faith
When I read a book by someone who doesn’t look like me, I am exposed to amazing people many of whom I’ve not heard previously. This is one way I expand my worldview and appreciation of people with different lived experiences. It’s important that White leaders must make a conscious effort to read nonfiction books written by leaders of color. It’s how we grow.

In this book, almost every example of greatness is a person of color—and not just men! It was refreshing to read so many stories of amazing people who overcame odds, disrupted expectations, and impacted so many lives.

Disruptive Thinking is divided into twelve chapters covering everything from what disruption is and why we need it now to why a person may choose to disrupt and why it’s so hard. He also covers the importance of partnerships, collaborations, and alliances—which I found to be profound on many levels. The book concludes with a few chapters where he explores how to have a healthy relationship with a disruptor whether they be staff, life partner, or offspring.

The Power of Stories: Lessons from Disruptors
There’s an important section following Jakes’ conclusion entitled “Disruptive Thinking Essays” in which numerous disruptors share their personal experiences effecting big change and how it impacted their lives—personally and professionally. Honestly, the essays are a GIFT because they offer true insight into how disruption is, well, disruptive!

The essays serve as evidence that (1) disruption by a single person can have tremendous impact; (2) there are all kinds of consequences of disruption, so be prepared; and (3) every single writer shares how “worth it” the work was.

One of my favorite insights in this section is from Nona Jones, the head of global faith-based partnerships at Meta. She concluded her story with this important statement:

"I am not willing to shrink my purpose down so that it fits within the too-small confines of other people's opinions. Disruption not only changes your situation; it also changes the composition of the supporting cast in your life. And, though painful in the moment, it is always for the better."

Her story really resonated with me, because in my life, my “supporting cast” has changed multiple times. It was hard when it happened, and sometimes I still mourn the losses. This is a good reminder to keep things in perspective, because loss is a fact of life for disruptors and innovators.

The Path to Transformation is clear
As I stated earlier, I found the section on partnerships, collaborations, and alliances especially insightful. Jakes explains in no uncertain terms that disruptive work requires humility and a willingness to listen, learn, and maybe even evolve.

Here are some of my favorite quotes from this section:

“Just because you’re a disruptive thinker, that doesn’t mean you have all the components to complete the assignment…We have to be disruptive enough to put ego to the side, which will enable us to find partners who bring substance to the table that can accessorize our limitations” (p. 49).

“New people are beneficial only if you are willing to consider new methods that might provide improved results” (p. 54).

“We cannot benefit from alliances if we aren’t willing to be altered by them. Change is imminent” (p. 55).

“None of us steps into a new situation with all the knowledge we will need to thrive. We’re going to have to figure some stuff out. One of the best ways of doing that is to observe everything. Assume nothing” (p. 59).

“The effectiveness of the alliance depends on your ability to observe the other, understand them, appreciate them, and learn how to communicate with them. Observation is key. It doesn’t always come naturally, but it is critical. It must be combined with communication. Communication without observation can lead to some wrong-headed conclusions, as does observation without communication. You might notice something, but you still have to discuss it to really understand what it means” (p. 56).

And those are just a few of the sentences I highlighted and starred in my hard copy. This book is PACKED with practical, actionable advice that will make transformational leadershp way less painful than it would be otherwise.

T.D. Jakes has outlined a clear path to transformation that requires observation, communication, and integration. He argues that you can’t get to transformation without integration, and you can’t get to integration without clear communication about your observations since observations alone might not paint an accurate picture. To quote my favorite author, “Clear is kind. Unclear is Unkind.” Brené Brown.

Conclusion
I wholeheartedly recommend Disruptive Thinking to anyone seeking to unlock their potential and create lasting, positive change in their lives and communities. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a leader, or an individual striving to grow, this book will equip you with the tools and mindset needed to transcend limitations, redefine possibilities, and step boldly into the transformative power of disruptive thinking.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

[Andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Disruptive Thinking, T.D. Jakes has written a powerful book about changing our mindsets and following a new strategy in how we live our lives. He explained how the people who have come before us that are written in history books, they chose to stand out and didn’t follow the mold. They are the disrupters and they didn’t care if they fit into society. He stated how we are conditioned to believe that someone will come and save us. This is why we love Superman, Lone Ranger, Batman, Black Panther, Wakanda, etc. He shared how Peter was a Biblical example of a disruptive thinker. He was talkative, outspoken, and a risk taker. He walked on water, cut off someone’s ear, declared that Jesus is the Messiah when Jesus asked him who He was. We have to be extremely careful not to succumb to peer pressure. You have to be willing to stand out and be different. Some of the real-life heroes are Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King Jr, just to name a few.


He opened up about how he became a disruptive thinker in his own life. At age, eleven he watched his father slowly become sicker and sicker. He went from 280 pounds to 130 pounds. His kidney began to fail at age 38. This forced him to grow up and become and adult and help his family during this difficult season. He stated how hard times produce strong leaders and this helped him to become a disruptive thinker. He remembers his father at one point telling them that he wanted to die and he was tired of fighting. He eventually did pass three years later.


Another powerful story was one that he shared about when he first began preaching at a national level and he was having news articles written about him. One attacked who he was and they didn’t say some nice things about him. He admitted that he thought about quitting and that he didn’t want this anymore. He was speaking at a church and he thought that this would be his last event and he was done. A woman come up to him and told him about how she about died from carrying a baby that passed away. She told him that it’s not for them that you do what you do, it’s for us. He later cried and admitted that he lost his purpose but the word she spoke over him changed his life and he got his fire back and kept going on. A few years later, he met her again and he got to tell her how much of an impact she had on him. He used this story to explain how success feels and how we can still feel lonely and unhappy. We can’t catch success for a feeling. He specified how important it is to serve others and how Jesus even washed feet and he used this to explain how a good leader will learn to serve others. He revealed how there are five things we must be willing to lay aside to serve others. These included, “time, title, talent, treasure, and temperament.


I would recommend this life changing book to anyone who is ready to focus on disruptive thinking and following wisdom and evolving change. This book is a very beneficial resource for readers to use in changing their mindset. One of my favorite chapters was about parenting a disrupter. This one discussed how creative people disrupted something to create whatever they desire. He shared how we teach our children to fit in and not to do anything that would make them stand out. But by looking at historical figures, they chose to do bold things. I liked how he shared the story of Sarah and how she caused him the most trouble growing up but is the most famous child of his and she leads Woman Thou Art Loosed now. He became pregnant at age 13 and chose to follow God’s calling on her life. I appreciated how he was trying to help parents to conduct more focused parenting if they have a disruptive child. I liked how he tried to guide parents in raising up a disrupter. I also greatly connected with the essays in the back of the book covering 11 key people that showcased how they are disruptive thinkers. These included, Osar Williams, Tristan Walker, Nona Jones, Dr. Anita Phillips, and much more. These personal leader’s stories were very remarkable and life changing examples to encourage readers to also follow disruptive thinking.





"I received this book free from the publisher, Hachette Book Group/Faithwords for my honest review.”

[Kevin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Today, I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude for the decision I made to purchase "Disruptive Thinking: A Daring Strategy to Change How We Live, Lead, and Love" by T.D. Jakes as a physical book instead of opting for my usual eBook format. It's incredible how such a small choice can make such a profound impact on our experiences.

As I hold this book in my hands, I am reminded of the power of tangible wisdom. The weight of its pages and the texture of its cover evoke a sense of authenticity and connection that simply cannot be replicated by a digital device. There's a certain magic in flipping through the pages, feeling the crisp paper under my fingertips, and relishing the scent of ink and paper.

In a world where technology often dominates our lives, embracing a physical book feels like a conscious act of rebellion. It's a way of reclaiming the simplicity and beauty of the analog world, allowing ourselves to be fully present in the moment. There's a sense of serenity that comes with disconnecting from screens and immersing oneself in the pages of a book, and "Disruptive Thinking" has undoubtedly provided me with that respite.

Furthermore, the physicality of this book serves as a constant reminder of the journey I embarked upon when I chose to dive into its transformative pages. It symbolizes my commitment to personal growth, the hunger for knowledge, and the desire to break free from the confines of my comfort zone. Every time I glance at it on my bookshelf or hold it in my hands, I am reminded of the importance of embracing disruption and pursuing my dreams with unwavering determination.

Moreover, the act of owning a physical copy of "Disruptive Thinking" has allowed me to engage with the text in a more profound manner. I find myself underlining key passages, scribbling notes in the margins, and even folding down the corners of pages that particularly resonate with me. These physical interactions create an intimate conversation between me and the book, as if T.D. Jakes and I are having a direct dialogue, sharing wisdom and insights.

I am grateful for the decision to step outside my digital comfort zone and embrace the richness of the physical book. It has heightened my reading experience, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the wisdom and teachings of T.D. Jakes. I have found solace, inspiration, and motivation within the pages of "Disruptive Thinking," and this tangible connection has only deepened the impact it has had on my life.

So, as I reflect on this journey, I encourage everyone to consider the power of a physical book in our fast-paced, digital world. There is something truly special about the connection we forge with the printed word, and the gratitude that arises from the simple act of holding a book in our hands. It's a reminder that amidst the ever-evolving technological advancements, there will always be a place for the profound and transformative experiences that can only come from the pages of a cherished book like "Disruptive Thinking."

Embrace the tangible wisdom. Cherish the physical journey. And let the power of "Disruptive Thinking" guide you to embrace the extraordinary possibilities that lie within.

[Shubhneet Chawla · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Disruptive thinking By T.D Jakes. Author has very well articulated his life learning and experiences

1. The older we get, the longer we live, the more we realise that we are born looking like our parents but we die looking like our decisions
2. A big part of our response mechanism is connected to the way we store our experiences as memories
3. Hard time produce strong leaders and good times produce weak leaders
4. Accesorize your limitations by developing relationships with people whose talent complements your limitations
5. Most marriges end up on a course of self justification to determine who is right rather than acknowledging their differences
6. God says- Love one another as i have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples
7. If you solve a problem and you serve somebody, your table will always be crowded and this is disruptive
8. Feeling better than the other stops you from admitting we are bad,flawed . When they directed negativity at you what they were really doing was finding a way to avoid looking inward and doing self assessment . It probably wasn't about you at all
9. I spent my life to climb on top of the hill, a bit winded and tired. I sat down exasperated and a bit in shock, Because i spend my life climbing the mountain only to find out that there are more mountains to climb. So i think i'll sit there and sit here and rest a while
10. You must go through listening stage then to learning stage and finally the leading stage
11. Always walk into the rooms where people's eyes light up when they see you. The fasted way to get any place is slowly
12. God Grant me the serenity to accept the things i cannot change | Courage to change the things i can and wisdom to know the difference
13. When we feel seen, we are more likely to flourish
14. All growth is disruptive and comes with growing pains. The very nature of progress is disruptive.
15. Stop fighting to be right , Repeat After me "I am not the STANDARD"
16. To all the friends who are married to disruptors, let there be peace on earth and let it begin with you
17. Tenacity(determination) will get you there, Consistency will keep you there. Gratefullness will give you more of what's there.

[Donna Hines (The Secret Book Sleuth) · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best audio books of the year!
T.D. Jakes is often too loud in videos that I find of his preachings but this was a calm, cool, collected audio in which he spoke without all the fanfare and spoke at a level one can appreciate.
It was about being disruptive or in other terms making waves -the good kind, the kind that creates change, allows leadership to follow, and brings about results.
When one is disruptive they respect authority but they balance risk and reward .
Outrun the herd, stand out, be a leader, and jump over the fence are just a few key word terms thrown out there.
What we know is this, " God will promote you to the level of the tolerance of your pain."
Disrupters find a solution and move towards it by never stopping to evolve.
Doors lead to many rooms and choosing where you start may not be where you finish.
Standing up requires standing out!
Hard work doesn't happen to bring weath anymore is often what we hear yet we know that yu can be poor anywhere according to T.D. Jakes even on the beach.
I love his down home goodness in every word, every sermon, every example.
Just keep moving because it doesn't matter where you start but where you finish.
The feeling of a parental figure takes hold with a boldness that isn't in your face but more of a learn and grow then go experience.
Fantastic!

[Joan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Jakes gives encouragement to become a change agent, to get beyond past hurts and pain, to grasp opportunities and turn them into change. If you are miserable, he writes, change your life. Don't stay where you are. Make choices.

In addition to encouragement, Jakes gives some helpful advice. He writes about developing a vision and getting all the information you need to create a business or nonprofit organization. Be flexible, he says. Be willing to move out of your comfort zone. Find partners to bring your vision to life. It may not be an easy path. “Disruptive thinking has to climb over the hurdles of unlikely alliances, initial discomfort, and possible misunderstandings, and find solutions that work.” (684/3019) He give tips on being a leader and ends his book with stories of people who have made a difference in the world through disruptive thinking.

If you are ready to change your thinking, this book is good encouragement. Jakes will help you discover what is holding you back and encourage you to move forward.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Ypatios Varelas · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book is a manifesto and a kind of very long motivational speech, in writing, about disruptive thinking AND acting as a way of living, to enable transition to a better world. Lots of stories, inspirational messages, and references to Bible and Jesus included, since the author is also a minister, which you can put aside if annoyed but the messages are still strong and useful.

It is more about the “disrupter” as a character, as a figure, about mindset, behavior, consuequences and implications than about disruptive thinking as processes, procedures, and techniques. Much like empowering coaching delivered by a successful disrupter.

«I am hoping that this book inspires you to at least lay the framework for what the next decade will look like for our world, for our community, and for our families. I am praying that it will inspire you to have the courage to disrupt the course you are on for the course you would like to see accomplished.»

I can see the value of the book in helping get people unstuck and getting teams, organizations and societies unstuck. By motivation, reassurance, stories, and a lot of sound advice.

[Mildred Chewe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Disruptive Thinking by T.D. Jakes is a bold and refreshing guide for anyone seeking to break out of conventional patterns and embrace transformative change. Jakes challenges readers to rethink what’s possible, whether in business, relationships, or personal growth. I appreciated his emphasis on disruption as a path to innovation rather than chaos, offering a much-needed mindset shift. His storytelling, always captivating, brings complex ideas to life through relatable and inspiring examples.

What resonated with me most was the blend of spiritual wisdom and practical advice — it felt both grounding and actionable. Jakes doesn’t just tell you to think differently; he equips you with tools to do so. His approach to leadership struck a chord, emphasizing adaptability and empowering others to innovate. I found his insights on balancing faith, purpose, and risk particularly meaningful as someone navigating both professional and personal growth.

This book is a reminder that disruption, while uncomfortable, is often the doorway to the next chapter of greatness. If you're ready to challenge norms and step into your next level, this is a must-read.

[Kameka · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have had this book since it came out and heard Bishop TD Jakes give a talk on the book in NYC when it was released.

Much of what is in the book was addressed during his book talk, but the stories are more detailed in the book. While he's written a number of books, this is the first that I've read of his. It's mostly a motivational book to inspire people to action, I'm not sure I would call it "disruptive" as I define the word. But I do think he poses questions for one to reflect on whether or not one is inherently called to action or a change agent or if one is best suited to support those who are called to action and to lead change.

I could have done without the chapters on marriage and parenting, but since he's a minister, perhaps his traditional audience expects that from him.

There were scriptures sprinkled in throughout, some that directly made sense and others I thought were more of a stretch to make a point.

I did note a number of the questions as I think they're good for anyone to reflect and particularly at the close of something and before the start of something new (end of year, end of a project, job, etc).

[Cover Lover Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

Disruptive Thinking is an inspiring and motivating book that challenges us to find our own path—our own way of thinking and doing things, rather than following the well-beaten way.

I enjoy books that inspire and encourage me to think differently, evolve, and transform. Through personal stories, examples, and instruction, the book encourages readers to be a thought disrupter, by breaking the norm, facing new challenges, making changes, and being consistent.

I especially enjoyed the “Disruptive Thinking Essays” in the final chapter.

First Line: When I was eleven, I watched my father waste away before my eyes.
Genre: Christian Personal Growth
Author: T.D. Jakes
Page Count: 272 (hardcover)

#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.

[DeWayne Neel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I sat at a conference in the mid-70s in California listening to Jessie Jackson as he discussed his Rainbow Coalition and now reading T. D. Jakes book, I am amazed at how little progress we have made in our racial relations in almost fifty years. Mr. Jakes gives a great number of suggestions for how we all can improve our relationship skills in our daily professional and social interactions and in this "self-help" instruction he challenges us to JUST DO IT! He admits at the end this task is difficult, but his encouraging words are, "Keep moving."
Without a doubt, we as a nation are at a great divide at present and we are in need of leadership as a nation, as a family, and as a person and this reading does give many worthwhile suggestions.

[Erica H. · Rating 3 out of 5]

I give it 3.5 stars. This is the first book I've read by Bishop Jakes. It was not what I was expecting, but I do understand the concept of Disruptive Thinking without the need for much of the content in the book. The book included "disruptive essays" from various disruptive thinkers--I liked this feature. More than much of the rest of the book, the essays made me think more critically about where I am in life and whether I have an ignored opportunity to be disruptive or if I'm even a disrupter in the first place.

I do recommend this book because like most personal development books, how you receive it and what you take from it changes with what you need at that particular time in your life.

[Paige Gordon · Rating 2 out of 5]

I did not like this book nearly as much as I was expecting to. I’ve read several of T.D.’s books and some of them have been incredibly life-changing for me, but this one just fell flat. It felt very scattered in the writing and overall seemed more like a book written specifically to/for/about minority groups and the issues they face in our current culture than it did about principles of thinking applicable to anyone. It’s not bad by any means, it just was not what I thought it was going to be and so it felt even more discombobulated than I think it otherwise would have if my expectations had been set more clearly from the get go.

Favorite Quote: “God will promote you to the level of your tolerance of pain.”

[JL · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book is definitely worth reading, but a difficult read because it's really a book that makes you think and work on yourself. I also did the Study Guide along with it, so it took me some time to get through it thoroughly. Some may say it's 5-star material due to the wealth of advice and knowledge you gain if you work through it patiently. Some may say it's more like 3.5-stars because perhaps they feel some redundancy, especially if you read the guide too. Because I didn't do it in a group setting (which is how the guide is supposed to be done) I think that made it more painful and long. I don't think it's a book and guide that should be rushed through, day by day as the guide suggests.

[Kyra Caswell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent self-improvement book.

Top 5 quotes from the book:

“Surround yourself with people who are smarter than you in an area without being intimidated because you can learn your way up to the top“

“Don’t make permanent decisions based on temporary discomfort. “

“The fastest way to get somewhere is to get there slowly”

“Keep moving. Tenacity will get you there. Consistency will keep you there. Gratefulness will give you more of what’s there”

“Criticism can be constructive and not a crisis. Sometimes it can be destructive as well but we have to ask ourselves is it true. Is there any element of true in what was said? Does the words that you said represent you and your character? If all this isn’t true, don’t allow their opinion become your reality “

[James Daniels · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bishop Jakes "Disruptive Thinking" was inspiring. Through his insight into how our minds and emotions work and through his experiences as a pastor , entrepreneur, and creator, Bishop Jakes leads us into a new way of relating to and transforming the world around us for good. Disruptive Thinking will teach you the mind-set and give the tools you need to create groundbreaking and meaningful change in your life and in the world around you. Excellent read I could not have explained it any better. Thank you Bishop Jakes for being a disruptive thinker and a true servant of God. I receive the blessing. May God continue to use you to be a blessing to others, God bless.

[Javon Maye · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bishop T.D. Jakes delivers a compelling and impactful message in "Disruptive Thinking," urging readers to break free from stagnation and embrace transformative change. With a seamless blend of spiritual wisdom and practical advice, Jakes challenges conventional thinking, offering real-life examples that resonate deeply. His eloquent writing style and motivational tone create a connection that goes beyond the pages, making this book a powerful guide for those seeking inspiration and actionable steps toward personal growth. "Disruptive Thinking" is a must-read for anyone ready to redefine goals, confront fears, and boldly pursue a life of innovation and fulfillment.

[Sam]

Gave it a go since I also work on disruption. Won’t rate it because I’m clearly not the intended audience. I had mild expectations and was left feeling annoyed on top of being disappointed. Words have meanings, for Pete’s sake. You can’t just go around misusing words just because you think they sound cool.

What it promises: Disruption isn’t merely a buzzword.
What it delivers: 100% buzzword.

[Andi Cook · Rating 4 out of 5]

Disruptive Thinking is an incredibly important book. Bishop TD Jakes provides wisdom and perspective on leadership mindsets and cultural issues while challenging societal norms and status quo.

World changers don’t make an impact by going with the flow, but instead create change by standing up and daring to think differently, act differently, talk differently and live differently. They are disruptive in all of the best ways possible.

[Chalisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was mediocre. At time as I felt as if he was bragging abundantly. It was easy for me to skip through various sections because he stretched out a concept. The vocabulary in this book like many of his others is high level. Sometimes I had to google various word meanings. My favorite part was the end when others shared their individual stories. Overall the book did not have as much as a faith based approach as I thought it would, but it was an okay read.