Leadership is not just about making decisions—it’s about shaping values, improving systems, and adding meaningful contributions to people’s lives and organizations. In Add Value—Improve the Status Quo, Paul B. Thornton distills decades of leadership experience, teaching, and research into a practical guide designed for both emerging and seasoned leaders. Whether you are preparing to step into your first leadership role or have been guiding teams for years, this book sharpens your perspective and equips you with actionable frameworks to become a more impactful leader.
Book Overview
Add Value—Improve the Status Quo provides a roadmap for leaders to clarify their core beliefs and translate them into effective action. Thornton emphasizes that leadership is not static—it requires continuous self-assessment, adaptability, and a willingness to improve existing systems.
Key takeaways from the book include:
- Understanding and articulating your core beliefs and values as a foundation for decision-making.
- Exploring multiple leadership models and frameworks that help leaders adapt to different challenges.
- Learning how to energize teams, add value to organizations, and continuously improve the status quo.
- Gaining new insights and practical strategies, even for experienced leaders who want to refine their approach.
Thornton’s writing style is direct and efficient, ensuring readers can grasp critical lessons without unnecessary complexity.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Title | Add Value—Improve the Status Quo |
| Author | Paul B. Thornton |
| Publisher | Independently published |
| Publication Date | September 3, 2024 |
| Language | English |
| Print Length | 97 pages |
| ISBN-13 | 979-8338224113 |
About the Author: Paul B. Thornton
Paul B. Thornton is an accomplished author, speaker, and former professor of business administration with extensive experience in leadership, management, and human resource development.
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Academic & Professional Background
- Studied management, psychology, and political science at Ohio University, where his passion for leadership was inspired by mentors Dr. Paul Hersey and Dr. Ken Blanchard.
- Holds master’s degrees in both business (M.B.A.) and education (M.Ed.).
- Designed and delivered numerous leadership training programs, succession planning initiatives, and organizational change projects.
Recognition & Awards
- United Technologies Award for Extraordinary Management Effectiveness (1985 & 1996).
- Joseph J. Deliso, Sr., Endowed Chair at Springfield Technical Community College (2015).
Publications & Contributions
- Author of 16 leadership books, including Leadership Case Studies and Is Your Organization Aligned?
- Published over 75 articles in business and leadership outlets.
- Creator of 28 leadership training videos on YouTube and multiple presentations on SlideShare.
- Contributor to LeadChangeGroup.com, where he publishes monthly leadership insights.
Thornton’s lifelong mission is to help individuals and organizations perform at their best through strong, values-driven leadership.
A Unique Element: Leadership Insights from the Next Generation
One standout aspect of the book is how Thornton incorporates perspectives from his grandchildren, proving that leadership wisdom can emerge from unexpected places. Their simple yet powerful insights add freshness and relatability to traditional leadership discussions, reminding readers that leadership principles can be both timeless and universal.
Highlighted Chapter: “Make It Visible!”
Readers have praised the chapter Make It Visible! as one of the most memorable parts of the book. In it, Thornton showcases real-world leaders who developed creative and powerful ways to highlight problems and opportunities. These leaders used visibility as a tool to spark awareness, drive accountability, and ensure that no issue was ignored.
This chapter alone provides readers with strategies they can apply immediately in their workplace or personal leadership practice.
Who Should Read This Book?
- Aspiring Leaders: Learn how to define your leadership philosophy early on.
- Experienced Leaders: Reflect on your existing style and discover ways to evolve.
- Educators & Trainers: Gain frameworks and case studies to use in teaching leadership.
- Business Professionals: Improve workplace culture and organizational effectiveness.
Reader Review Spotlight
“This book is a quick and easy read that covers a lot of territory in a very efficient manner. Paul’s writing is direct and gets to the point quickly, without a lot of filler. I thought the concept of incorporating input from his grandchildren was brilliant. Those kids have some really great insights on leadership, even at their young ages.
The chapter Make It Visible! stood out the most. I’ve never come across such powerful examples of how leaders make problems and opportunities impossible to ignore. I think you will enjoy this book very much.”
