Brenda Kline Reynolds is the President of BKR Consulting. With 30 years of experience, Brenda helps executives find clarity in challenging times. I’m happy to say that I’m one of those executives. Over the past month or so, I’ve had the opportunity to work with her, and I think she’s exceptional. I recently read her book, To Be Determined: Leading with Clarity and Confidence in Uncertain Times, and it’s brimming with useful advice and strategies for executives of all ages and levels within an organization. Read on for my full thoughts on this book.
Publisher’s Summary
Become a master of the “now what?” moment.
As a leader, you know that complexity, responsibility, change, and uncertainty come with the job. Everyone expects you to know what to do. But managing business transitions in rapidly changing conditions can be extra challenging. How you manage uncertainty affects not only you but sends a big ripple through your organization. Learning how “to be” when the answer is unclear may be the most important leadership muscle you need to build.
Leadership expert Brenda Reynolds equips you with information, strategies, and examples that will grow your confidence and help you stand out among other leaders. You will find power and clarity in the midst of uncertain times—whether your company is facing a reorganization, merger, change in leadership or any of the myriad of changes that thrust you into a “now what?” moment.
Discover how to:
- Lead others confidently through the challenges of change and emotions of transition
- Navigate “Transition Fog” and transform uncertainty into opportunity
- Discover powerful options for times when you feel powerless
- Become a better leader during “now what?” moments
- Find clarity in complex and confusing times
Through real-life stories and clear, actionable advice, Reynolds reminds us: “When nothing is sure, everything is possible.”
My Thoughts
I own Brenda’s book in all three formats: print, ebook, and audiobook. I happily paid for the ebook and audiobook because of my belief in Brenda as an authentic, positive force in the world. Check out her TEDx talk above to get a taste of what I mean. My preferred method of soaking up the knowledge in her book was to listen to the audiobook because it’s narrated by Brenda herself, making for an intimate and enlightening listening experience. But I know I’ll be using the ebook and physical book regularly, as the information in TBD is meant to be referenced and read numerous times.
TBD is broken into 10 chapters, and the audiobook is nearly five hours and thirty minutes long. It breezes by with chapters devoted to preparing for transition fog, focusing on the “next right thing,” and being wary of the either/or trap, among others. Filled with inspirational quotes, real-life challenges and success stories, and strategies that can be applied to one’s life and career immediately, Brenda has authored a book that is accessible and beneficial to everyone. There are plenty of self-help books that are all sizzle and no steak. That is not the case with TBD. Rather, it delivers what’s promised . . . and more. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone looking to optimize their personal life and career. And if you have the opportunity to work with Brenda as a consultant, you should absolutely do so. She’s the real deal.