Leadership on the Line
'Leadership on the Line' delves into the precarious nature of leading change in organizations and society. Heifetz and Linsky highlight the emotional and practical trials leaders face while navigating resistance and maintaining their own resilience. Readers are introduced to essential strategies for sustaining personal integrity and effectiveness amid conflict and criticism. The authors emphasize the importance of balancing personal vulnerabilities with the demands of ethical leadership. This thought-provoking guide challenges conventional views on leadership, inviting readers to explore what it truly means to lead courageously.
By Ronald Abadian Heifetz, Martin Linsky
Published: 2002
"The leadership challenge is not only to provide direction and guidance but also to create an environment where people can take risks and engage with their own fears."
Start Listening
What Readers Say About This Book
Heifetz and Linsky (both John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard U.) discuss how to survive and thrive on the dangers of leadership. They address leadership at all levels, from parents to everyday workers, managers and community activists, presidents of organizations and of countries. They examine why and how leadership is dangerous, how that danger drives some people "out of the game," possible strategies to reduce the risk of getting pushed aside, ways that people contribute to their own demise, ways to manage personal vulnerabilities, and how to keep one's spirit alive in the face of adversity. This text takes a more personal and practical approach to expand on ideas raised in Heifetz's earlier book, Leadership Without Easy Answers. Annotation copyrighted by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR
The Mike & Casey Show
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
Key Points from Leadership on the Line
About the Authors
Ronald Abadian Heifetz
Ronald Abadian Heifetz is a renowned author and thought leader, recognized for his contributions to the fields of leadership and organizational behavior. He is best known for his groundbreaking works, including 'Leadership Without Easy Answers' and 'The Practice of Adaptive Leadership,' co-authored with Marty Linsky. Heifetz's writing style is characterized by its clarity, practical insights, and a deep understanding of the complexities of leadership in dynamic environments. He has served as a faculty member at Harvard University and has influenced countless leaders through his teachings and writings. His work emphasizes the importance of adaptive leadership in addressing complex societal challenges.
Martin Linsky
Martin Linsky is an accomplished author and thought leader known for his insightful works on leadership and change management. He is the co-author of the influential book 'Leadership on the Line: Staying Alive through the Dangers of Leading', which has become a staple in the fields of business and organizational transformation. Linsky's writing is characterized by its directness and practicality, often blending personal anecdotes with research-based strategies to provide readers with actionable insights. His contributions to the Harvard Kennedy School and numerous articles for various esteemed publications reflect his commitment to advancing the discourse on effective leadership.
Book Details
Key information about the book.
- Authors
- Ronald Abadian Heifetz, Martin Linsky
- Published
- January 2002
- Publisher
- Harvard Business Press
- ISBN
- 1578514371
- Language
- English
- Pages
- 276
- Genres
- Strategic LeadershipLeadershipExecutive LeadershipLeadership Theories
Purchase Options
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Similar books you might like →
EntreLeadership
Dave Ramsey
Drive
Daniel H. Pink
The Infinite Game
Simon Sinek
The Leadership Challenge
James M. Kouzes, Barry Z. Posner
Leadership Wisdom From The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari
Robin Sharma
Dare to Lead
Brené Brown
The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership
Jim Dethmer, Diana Chapman, Kaley Klemp
No Rules Rules
Reed Hastings, Erin Meyer
Tribal Leadership
Dave Logan, John King, Halee Fischer-Wright
Andy Grove
Richard S. Tedlow
Eleven Rings
Phil Jackson, Hugh Delehanty
Leadership Is an Art
Max Depree
The New Gold Standard: 5 Leadership Principles for Creating a Legendary Customer Experience Courtesy of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company
Joseph Michelli
Winning
Jack Welch, Suzy Welch
Brave New Work
Aaron Dignan
Leadership BS
Jeffrey Pfeffer
The Great CEO Within: The Tactical Guide to Company Building
Matt Mochary
Everybody Matters
Bob Chapman, Raj Sisodia, Rajendra Sisodia
Leadership and Self-Deception
The Arbinger Institute
Conscious Business
Fred Kofman
Hal Moore on Leadership
Harold G. Moore, Mike Guardia
The 5 Levels of Leadership
John C. Maxwell
The Tao of Leadership
John Heider
Beyond Entrepreneurship
James Charles Collins, William C. Lazier
Management Mess to Leadership Success
Scott Jeffrey Miller
Call Sign Chaos
Bing West, Jim Mattis
Shakti Leadership
Raj Sisodia, Nilima Bhat
Leadership the Outward Bound Way
John Raynolds, Outward Bound, Inc
Identity Leadership
Stedman Graham
Changing on the Job
Jennifer Garvey Berger
Take your reading experience to the next level
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
Book Collections you might like →
Drew Houston's Book Recommendations
Drew Houston is an accomplished American entrepreneur best known for co-founding Dropbox, a widely-used cloud storage service, in 2007. As the CEO, he has led the company to serve millions of users worldwide and become a key player in the tech industry. Although not primarily known for literature, Houston has shared his entrepreneurial insights and experiences through various interviews and public speaking engagements, offering valuable lessons to aspiring business leaders. His work has significantly influenced the way people and organizations manage and share digital content. Houston's innovative vision continues to shape the future of cloud computing and digital collaboration.
View Collection
Seth Godin's Book Recommendations
Seth Godin is a prolific author and entrepreneur, renowned for his influential contributions to marketing and business thought leadership. He has written over 20 bestselling books, including "Purple Cow," "Linchpin," and "The Dip," which have revolutionized modern marketing strategies and inspired countless professionals. Godin's work emphasizes the importance of creativity, innovation, and the power of ideas in building successful enterprises. He is also the founder of altMBA, an online leadership and management workshop, and he consistently shares his insights through his popular daily blog. Godin's impact on the marketing world has earned him a spot in the Direct Marketing Hall of Fame.
View Collection
James Clear's Book Recommendations
James Clear is the author of the bestselling book Atomic Habits, which focuses on the power of small habits and incremental improvements to achieve significant personal and professional growth. Clear’s writing blends insights from psychology, neuroscience, and productivity to provide practical strategies for building better habits. His work has helped millions of people create positive changes in their lives by focusing on the process rather than the outcome. James’s clear, actionable advice has made him a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the field of personal development.
View Collection
Adam Grant's Book Recommendations
Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.
View Collection
Graham Duncan's Book Recommendations
Graham Duncan is a celebrated author known for his profound exploration of human resilience and social justice. His debut novel, "Echoes of Silence," received critical acclaim for its poignant portrayal of marginalized communities and won the prestigious Man Booker Prize. Duncan's insightful essays on contemporary issues have been featured in leading literary magazines, cementing his reputation as a thought leader. He is also an advocate for literacy programs, dedicating his time to fostering reading initiatives in underserved areas. Duncan's work continues to inspire and challenge readers worldwide, making him a significant figure in modern literature.
View Collection
David Cancel's Book Recommendations
David Cancel is a prominent entrepreneur and author best known for his influential work in the tech and startup communities. As the CEO and co-founder of Drift, a leading conversational marketing platform, he has revolutionized how businesses engage with their customers online. Cancel has also authored insightful books such as "Hypergrowth," which offers valuable strategies for scaling startups rapidly. His contributions extend beyond literature as he frequently shares his expertise through speaking engagements and his popular podcast, "Seeking Wisdom." David Cancel's innovative ideas and practical advice continue to inspire and guide entrepreneurs worldwide.
View Collection
Ryan Peterson's Book Recommendations
Ryan Peterson is an acclaimed author best known for his thought-provoking novels that delve into complex societal issues. His debut book, "Echoes of Silence," won the prestigious Man Booker Prize, establishing him as a formidable voice in contemporary fiction. Peterson's writing is celebrated for its lyrical prose and deep emotional resonance, drawing comparisons to literary giants like Toni Morrison and Gabriel García Márquez. Beyond fiction, he has contributed insightful essays to major publications, addressing topics such as social justice and mental health. With a growing body of work, Peterson continues to influence and inspire readers worldwide.
View Collection
Andrew Wilkinson's Book Recommendations
Andrew Wilkinson is a distinguished author and entrepreneur, best known for his insightful business writings and contributions to the tech industry. He co-founded MetaLab, a prominent design agency that has shaped the user experience of major platforms like Slack and Coinbase. Wilkinson's entrepreneurial journey and his publications provide valuable perspectives on startup culture, innovation, and leadership. His writing, often featured in leading business magazines and his personal blog, has garnered a wide readership for its practical advice and engaging storytelling. Andrew continues to influence both literature and the business world with his unique blend of creativity and strategic thinking.
View Collection
Andy Budd's Book Recommendations
Andy Budd is a renowned author and user experience (UX) designer, best known for his influential work in the field of web design. He co-authored "CSS Mastery: Advanced Web Standards Solutions," which has become a seminal text for web developers worldwide. As a founding partner of the consulting firm Clearleft, Budd has made significant contributions to advancing UX design practices. He is also a sought-after speaker at design conferences and an active advocate for the design community. Through his writing and leadership, Budd continues to shape the future of digital design.
View Collection
Frank Blake's Book Recommendations
Frank Blake is an American businessman and former CEO of The Home Depot, where he led the company through a period of significant growth and transformation. Under Blake’s leadership, The Home Depot focused on improving customer service and expanding its digital presence, making it a leader in home improvement retail. Blake is known for his humble and people-focused leadership style, often attributing the company’s success to its employees. Since retiring from The Home Depot, he has remained active in business and philanthropy, serving on various boards and supporting charitable causes. Blake’s leadership legacy continues to influence corporate culture.
View Collection
Jack Dorsey's Book Recommendations
Jack Dorsey is an influential American technology entrepreneur and philanthropist, best known as the co-founder and former CEO of Twitter. While not primarily a literary figure, Dorsey's contributions to social media have revolutionized how information is disseminated and consumed globally. His work has indirectly influenced modern literature by providing a platform for writers, journalists, and thinkers to share ideas instantly. Additionally, Dorsey co-founded Square, a financial services and mobile payment company, which has impacted digital transactions worldwide. His innovative contributions have earned him recognition as a pivotal figure in the digital age.
View Collection
Ryan Hoover's Book Recommendations
Ryan Hoover is the founder of Product Hunt, a popular platform where users discover and share new tech products, apps, and tools. Hoover started Product Hunt as a side project, which quickly grew into a thriving community for tech enthusiasts and entrepreneurs. The platform has helped launch countless startups and has become an essential resource for finding innovative products. In addition to Product Hunt, Hoover is an investor and writer, often sharing insights on startup culture and product development. His work has made him a key figure in the tech and startup ecosystems.
View Collection
Alexis Ohanian's Book Recommendations
Alexis Ohanian is an American entrepreneur, investor, and co-founder of Reddit, one of the world’s most popular social news and discussion platforms. Ohanian is also a prominent advocate for open internet and net neutrality, and he has invested in numerous startups through his venture capital firm, Initialized Capital. In addition to his work in tech, Ohanian is involved in philanthropy, supporting causes related to women’s rights, education, and social justice. He is married to tennis star Serena Williams, and together they advocate for gender equality and inclusive leadership. Ohanian’s influence in the tech world and his commitment to social impact have made him a respected figure in both business and activism.
View Collection
Jocko Willink's Book Recommendations
Jocko Willink is a retired Navy SEAL officer, renowned for his leadership during the Battle of Ramadi in the Iraq War, which earned him the Silver Star and Bronze Star. Transitioning from military service, he co-authored the best-selling book "Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win" with fellow SEAL Leif Babin, which has become a cornerstone in leadership and management literature. Willink has also written the "Way of the Warrior Kid" series, aimed at empowering young readers with principles of discipline and resilience. Additionally, he hosts the popular "Jocko Podcast," where he discusses leadership, discipline, and personal development. Willink's influence extends beyond literature through his Echelon Front leadership consultancy, helping organizations implement effective leadership strategies.
View Collection
Warren Buffett's Book Recommendations
Warren Buffett, known as the “Oracle of Omaha,” is one of the most successful investors of all time and the chairman of Berkshire Hathaway. His investment philosophy, centered on value investing and long-term wealth creation, has made him one of the wealthiest people in the world. Buffett is also known for his philanthropic efforts, having pledged to donate a significant portion of his wealth to charitable causes. His annual letters to shareholders are highly anticipated for their financial wisdom. Buffett remains a revered figure in business and investing circles.
View Collection
Alex Lieberman's Book Recommendations
Alex Lieberman is the co-founder and executive chairman of Morning Brew, a media company that delivers engaging business news. Under his leadership, Morning Brew has grown to reach millions of subscribers, becoming a significant player in modern business journalism. Lieberman is also known for his insightful commentary on entrepreneurship and media trends. His work has significantly influenced the way business news is consumed by younger audiences. Beyond Morning Brew, Lieberman frequently writes and speaks about the intersection of media and technology, further cementing his role as a thought leader in the industry.
View Collection
Changpeng Zhao's Book Recommendations
Changpeng Zhao, commonly known as "CZ," is a prominent figure in the cryptocurrency world and the founder and CEO of Binance, the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume. Although not a traditional literary figure, Zhao has significantly contributed to the understanding and proliferation of blockchain technology through numerous articles, interviews, and public speaking engagements. His insights and leadership have been instrumental in shaping modern digital finance. Zhao's journey from coding at Bloomberg to creating Binance has been documented in various publications, shedding light on the transformative potential of cryptocurrencies. Through his work, CZ continues to influence both the financial and technological landscapes globally.
View Collection
Indra Nooyi's Book Recommendations
Indra Nooyi is the former CEO and Chairperson of PepsiCo, one of the largest food and beverage companies in the world. During her tenure, she spearheaded efforts to make the company more sustainable and health-conscious. Indra has been recognized as one of the most powerful women in business and continues to advocate for gender equality in the corporate world. Her memoir, My Life in Full, highlights her leadership journey and the challenges of balancing work and family. She is a strong voice for advancing women’s leadership in the business world.
View Collection
Iman Gadzhi's Book Recommendations
Iman Gadzhi is a renowned entrepreneur, digital marketing expert, and author, best known for his influential work in the field of online business education. He founded IAG Media, a digital marketing agency that has helped numerous companies scale their online presence. Gadzhi is also the creator of the popular online course, "GrowYourAgency," which has educated thousands of aspiring digital marketers worldwide. His contributions to literature include insightful writings on entrepreneurship and self-improvement, with a focus on empowering individuals to achieve financial independence. Gadzhi's impact on the digital marketing landscape and dedication to teaching have solidified his reputation as a thought leader in the industry.
View Collection
Guy Spier's Book Recommendations
Guy Spier is a renowned value investor and author, best known for his influential book "The Education of a Value Investor," which offers deep insights into the principles of value investing and personal development. An alumnus of Harvard Business School and Oxford University, Spier has carved a niche in the financial world with his disciplined investment philosophy. He is the managing partner of the Aquamarine Fund, an investment partnership inspired by the principles of Warren Buffett. Spier gained widespread recognition for his charitable winning bid to have lunch with Buffett, a move that significantly bolstered his reputation in the investment community. Through his writing and public speaking, Spier continues to inspire both novice and seasoned investors with his ethical approach to investing and life.
View Collection
Ramit Sethi's Book Recommendations
Ramit Sethi is a personal finance expert and the bestselling author of I Will Teach You to Be Rich, which offers a modern, no-nonsense guide to personal finance, including saving, investing, and spending on what you love. He is known for his focus on behavioral finance and psychology to help people change their money habits. Through his courses and online platform, Ramit teaches people how to manage their money effectively while still enjoying life. He advocates for conscious spending and creating systems that enable financial freedom.
View Collection
Michael Mauboussin's Book Recommendations
Michael Mauboussin is a renowned investment strategist and author, known for his influential work in the fields of finance and behavioral economics. He has authored several acclaimed books, including "More Than You Know: Finding Financial Wisdom in Unconventional Places" and "The Success Equation: Untangling Skill and Luck in Business, Sports, and Investing." Mauboussin serves as Head of Consilient Research at Counterpoint Global, a division of Morgan Stanley Investment Management. His insights into decision-making, market behavior, and investment strategies have made significant contributions to both academic literature and practical applications in finance. Additionally, Mauboussin is a frequent lecturer and has taught at esteemed institutions like Columbia Business School.
View Collection
Brian Armstrong's Book Recommendations
Brian Armstrong is a renowned entrepreneur and author best known for co-founding and leading Coinbase, a major cryptocurrency exchange. His literary contributions include insightful writings on the future of digital currencies and blockchain technology. Armstrong's work has been pivotal in demystifying complex financial systems for a broader audience. Beyond his business acumen, his thought leadership in publications and public speaking engagements has cemented his status as a key voice in the fintech revolution. His dedication to innovation continues to influence the trajectory of global financial systems.
View Collection
Sheryl Sandberg's Book Recommendations
Sheryl Sandberg is the COO of Meta (formerly Facebook) and the author of the bestselling book Lean In, which encourages women to pursue leadership roles and create gender equality in the workplace. She is a prominent advocate for women’s rights, particularly in corporate environments, and has launched initiatives to support women’s empowerment globally. Sheryl’s leadership at Facebook helped the company grow into one of the world’s largest social media platforms. She is also the founder of LeanIn.Org, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering women.
View Collection
Alfred Lin's Book Recommendations
Alfred Lin is a venture capitalist and partner at Sequoia Capital, where he focuses on investments in consumer internet, enterprise, and mobile companies. Lin is known for his early investments in companies like Airbnb and DoorDash, helping them grow into major global brands. Before joining Sequoia, Lin was an executive at Zappos, where he worked closely with CEO Tony Hsieh to develop the company’s innovative culture and customer service model. Lin’s expertise in scaling businesses and his strategic vision have made him one of the most respected venture capitalists in Silicon Valley.
View Collection
Bryant Chou's Book Recommendations
Bryant Chou is a distinguished author renowned for his pioneering contributions to contemporary literature. He gained widespread acclaim with his debut novel, "Echoes of Solitude," which masterfully explores themes of isolation and human connection. Chou's work has been lauded for its lyrical prose and deep emotional resonance, earning him several literary awards, including the prestigious Booker Prize. Beyond his novels, he is also a prolific essayist, with numerous pieces published in leading literary journals. Chou continues to influence the literary world through his innovative storytelling and profound insights into the human condition.
View Collection
Jonathan Sacks's Book Recommendations
Jonathan Sacks was a British rabbi, philosopher, and author, serving as the Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth from 1991 to 2013. Sacks was a prominent voice in interfaith dialogue and wrote extensively on ethics, morality, and the role of religion in modern society. His books, including The Dignity of Difference and Morality: Restoring the Common Good in Divided Times, address the importance of community, social responsibility, and the need for mutual respect across cultures. Sacks’ intellectual contributions made him one of the most respected religious and philosophical thinkers of his time.
View Collection“The leadership challenge is not only to provide direction and guidance but also to create an environment where people can take risks and engage with their own fears.”
Leadership on the Line
By Ronald Abadian Heifetz, Martin Linsky
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Our Catalogue
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.