The Promise Doctrine

Foreword by Marshall Goldsmith

Ethical behavior is a key characteristic of successful leaders. If people are going to willingly follow a leader, they need to trust that their leaders are going to bring them to a place where they want to be. Today, many people believe that ethics are lacking in their leaders and go so far as to say that ethical behavior will become the most important quality of leaders of the future.

Behind the broad concept of “ethical behavior” is a simple act that a leader can take to build trust: make realistic promises and keep them. You see, leaders are defined by the promises they make and the promises they keep - and the discrepancy between the two. Leaders who make lots of little (or big) promises they don’t keep or who negotiate and who tend to renegotiate without fulfilling their promises will soon find that their people are not following, not listening, not trusting, and chances are, not staying.

That’s why this book, The Promise Doctrine, is so important right now. It puts in your hands a system that will guide you to deliver on your promises. And it’s not just about keeping promises on the line or in the board room; it’s about being true to your word at home and in your personal life. Because as Jason and Craig say in numerous ways in this great book, doing what you say you’re going to do, when you say you’re going to do it “encourages achievement, honesty and teamwork in all areas of life and work.” And, who wouldn’t want that?

The Promise Doctrine is an extraordinary resource! This guide and activity book is invaluable to anyone leading and living in the 21st century world. Hats off to the authors for producing such a terrific, thoughtful handbook to personal and professional success!

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Marshall Goldsmith is the best selling author of 

“MOJO” and “What Got You Here Won’t Get You There”