The Paradox of Power: A Transforming View of Leadership

by Pat Williams

Seasoned NBA executive Pat Williams ignores conventional management wisdom, instead turning to the Scriptures to develop successful leadership principles. Examining the paradoxes that made Christ an exceptional leader, he then offers fascinating and instructive examples that make those principles relevant today. Successful leadership is not a matter of simply maximizing profits, but of striving to make this world a better place, and Williams shows how the paradoxical approach is so much more powerful than traditional leadership based on common sense.

Genres: Leadership

256 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2002

About the author

Patrick Livingston Murphy Williams was an American sports executive, who served as senior vice president of the Orlando Magic. Williams began his career as a minor league baseball player, and later joined the front office of his team. In the late 1960s he moved into basketball, with his biggest achievements being the 1983 title of the Philadelphia 76'ers and being a partner in the creation of the Orlando Magic.

Reviews

[Zestie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read it when I was 16 during the summer vacation before my last year at high school. It had profound influence on me, I completely changed my behavior to become an influential person in my new school. That experiment made me a lot friends and helped to overcome any hostility. I read it countlessly and suggested my friends to read it, but nobody seemed to be impressed by it as much as I was. In nutshell , the book guides on becoming an efficient leader, based on Jesus Christ’s leadership model. The only part I had difficulty understanding till now is the first chapter, vision. Every leader should have a clear vision. As time goes, I come to realize that my entire life I lacked this quality to solidify my future. Set a goal and go for it. I have always wanted to be a leader, but I could never decide which direction I should be leading. I’ll be returning to that back over and over again

[Abel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Es un buen tema basado basicamente en un liderazgo de servicio y muy bien abarcado desde los diferentes angulos de la tematica. Dirigido a un publico Cristiano como secular.
Recomendado

[Ariana Bernard · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good, very religious

[Peter Amegah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seven leadership lessons from the master leader Himself - Jesus Christ of Nazerath. Great book by Pat Thomas

[Shannon · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this read, but to be honest I didn't enjoy as much as some of Pat Williams others books. As most book timing is everything. I've went back and revisited books that I've read and wondered why I liked them or didn't like them. I may need to go through this one again. It just seems that al these leadership books start running together after awhile.

[Andy Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The paradox of becoming a servant, paradox of becoming less, paradox of listening to critics and the paradox of thinking of others first. A great read. Must read for anyone aspiring to be a leader or is in a leadership position. Mark it down as "one to buy."

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderfully written, great examples of leadership and faith. The stories were interesting and the messages were clear. Helped me look at leadership as a call to service and gave me insights into what comes with leadership.

[Gayle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very inspiring and has made me think about leadership in a different way.

[Stephen Gledhill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read. Many practical ideas. I learned how much I have to learn to be an influential and effective leader. Serving others in leadership is often overlooked by a thirst for power.

[Jim Serger · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a insightful book.

[Jocelyn]

Examples from Jesus, professional atheletes and coaches, politicians and... my favorite: children, all help to illustrate the competencies of effective leadership.

[Willie O · Rating 5 out of 5]

A pick me up anytime book to get insights on how to be a better leader at home and away. Pat does have a tendency to repeat many of the same topics he presents in his other books.

[Sam · Rating 4 out of 5]

A smashingly brilliant piece of writing.
Presents some beautiful learning & mirror moments.