Derailed by Tim Irwin

Derailed by Tim Irwin is a step out of the box. Six highly successful CEOs are examined for the causation of their failure in the high profile positions they each have held but lost. These causations generate a list of five stages of de-railment. These stages lead to what it takes to stay on track. Finally, five critical lessons are revealed to help us manage our character and keep us on track for enduring success.

When I first started reading this book, I was concerned with what appeared to be disrespect given to 6 extremely successful multi-billion dollar corporate CEOs. The concerns were unfounded as the book progressed onto the meat. This book fits nicely into one of my basic life truths. You are where you are today because of choices you have made, as great or crappy as they may have been. This book aligns well with this statement. Your character can make or break you as you lead. Character flaws can make even the most successful leaders fall hard. What you choose to do when both of the only two decisions cause harm to someone is who you are at the core. Your arrogance, self awareness, and choice to continue to grow and learn are the keys to determining your ultimate path that is guided by who you really are when backed into a corner and your true character must shine out.

The following is a glossary of the nuggets of information to take away from this book:

6 reviews of billion dollar companies show what derailed them.

Robert Nardelli - Home Depot - Arrogance?

Carly Fiorina - HP - Lack of operational skills and willingness to delegate?

Durk Jager - P&G - failed at engaging the people to make big changes?

Steven Heyer - Starwood Hotels - Alienated himself from the company, losing touch with the employees?

Frank Raines - Fannie Mae - Illegal accounting methods

Dick Fuld - Lehman Brothers - Stubborness and Arrogance?

Derailment Process:

Stage I - Failure of Self/Other-Awareness

Stage II - Hubris: Pride before the fall

Stage III - Missed early warning signs

Stage IV - Rationalizing

Stage V - Derailment

Three Tests of Character:

-Does the leader have a strong moral/ethical guidance system that functions well in ambiguous situations?

-Does the leader make decisions just for expediency?

-Does the leader handle adversity with grace?

Practice your self awareness

Practice humility

Five critical lessons learned:

1. Character trumps competence

2. Arrogance is the mother of all derailers

3. Lack of self/other awareness is a common denominator of all derailments

4. We are always who we are...especially under stress

5. Derailment is not inevitable, but without attention to development it is probable

Five critical habits of the heart:

1. Openness

2. Self/Other awareness

3. Listening to early warning systems

4. Accountability

5. Resiliency

Make these habits your own and you will be guarded against derailment.

Will you read this book again? Yes, likely. This book has good principles to live and lead by. It will be a good future reference.

Would you suggest this book be added to a personal library or leave it at the public library? Personal, this book could be loaned to others that need it and also will be a good reference over the years.

Reviewed By Mike W. - Twin Cities, MN