Official Review: Violent Leadership by Wesley Middleton

RaeReads · Post by **RaeReads** » 13 Jan 2019, 17:18

Interesting premise, but I haven't ever nor do I ever intend to be a part of the corporate world, so this book probably isn't for me. I suppose I would be considered as one of those people who like to be

rocked in the cradle of contentment

as the author said in his foreword. Everyone's definition of success is different.

Jaykik · Post by **Jaykik** » 13 Jan 2019, 17:19

Nothing good comes easy; so it is in the business world. To be a successful entrepreneur or in the general sense, one have to put all efforts coupled with hardwork. Failure is not a detriment to being successful. In fact, failure gives way to more success.
Thanks for the review.

Rafaella Michailidou · Post by **Rafaella Michailidou** » 13 Jan 2019, 17:20

I get why there are books like that, I think they are very helpful but surely they are for a specific audience. It's not my style but I hope this book will be proven useful to others.

starshipsaga · Post by **starshipsaga** » 13 Jan 2019, 17:22

The "Violent" part in the title definitely misled me, I'm glad you clarified it in your review. Though I think the better word for for that type of management/leadership style might be "assertive", I understand what the author is driving at, and sounds like there's a lot of good advice in this book. And this is the first I've heard of the term "xennial". It kind of describes me as well, I'm using it!

Manang Muyang · Post by **Manang Muyang** » 13 Jan 2019, 17:24

Violence is certainly intimidating if taken literally. The author mentions the NFL as one of his inspirations. There is a continuous need for results as demanded by the ruthless competition. Nobody should rest on his laurels.

Tough leadership is crucial for the tough business world. Such is his secret in running MRZ, his firm.

bellaterrabooks · Post by **bellaterrabooks** » 13 Jan 2019, 17:25

This book emerges as an optimistic perspective on the phrase “violent leadership." The author establishes the concept of leading with a positive energetic purpose. Through words of wisdom and encouragement, he motivates the reader to take charge in their own life in regards to their own leadership positions in business. I also like the analogy between a thermostat and a thermometer as it is an excellent gauge of an individual's role in their own professional setting.

nonamer_miss · Post by **nonamer_miss** » 13 Jan 2019, 17:34

I think this book is good for competitive people who strives to be on top. Although without reading this book, I don't think I'll grab this book from a shelf because of the book cover and title.

lesler · Post by **lesler** » 13 Jan 2019, 17:41

This book looks like a fresh and different approach to running a successful business. I look forward to reading it!

skindrukas · Post by **skindrukas** » 13 Jan 2019, 17:43

I think I posted a reply here but it didn't appear, so posting it again. I apologize if my previous post will appear later and I will repeat myself.

I know a person who would love this book, wouldn't mind reading it myself too as my studies were related to business strategies and things alike and the title is catchy.

I would just like to ask about the religious aspect mentioned in the review. The friend whom I'd like to recommend this book would be annoyed if there is too much of Christianity in the context. So if you've read the book (and my comment), please text me a short message. Thank you.

ea_anthony · Post by **ea_anthony** » 13 Jan 2019, 17:51

This is a well balanced and helpful review. However, I wonder what John Maxwell (my favourite leadership author) would have to say about "Violent Leadership". This book might make for useful reading, especially when trying to contrast leadership theories. Kudos to the author for boldly publicising his beliefs on leadership and congrats on #BOTD.

wave_newd · Post by **wave_newd** » 13 Jan 2019, 18:02

Certainly an interesting title for Mr Middleton's book. I agree with the other commenter that it is a heavy title and perhaps a little off-putting, My initial expectations were outbursts and bullying. Perhaps how not to do business rather than a business help book.

The Foreword, Acknowledgements and From the Author at the beginning made me nervous, I wasn't sure if I would be preached to or not. But as the reviewer points out, this is not the case.

I have read a little of the book and look forward to finishing it off tonight.

imjaneturner · Post by **imjaneturner** » 13 Jan 2019, 18:07

This book sounds like it would be interesting IF the author addresses the complexity surrounding gender in the workplace. My very first reaction to this review was, "women wouldn't be allowed to act this way." Women are so often punished for actions for which their male counterparts are rewarded. As a woman, I would take this advice with a grain of salt...

Seraphia Bunny Sparks · Post by **Seraphia Bunny Sparks** » 13 Jan 2019, 18:09

I appreciate your informative review concerning this book. I have to admit that my first thought when I saw the title for this book I thought that this book was a story about a terrible boss and their less than desirable leadership. Reading more into I learn that this book is more about improving one's leadership if they are in such a role in the workforce. I think that this book will be insightful and educational for many who are in such a role. Maybe one day this book will be one I should pick up, being an entrepreneur myself, but for now, I will pass on reading this book.

Shas F · Post by **Shas F** » 13 Jan 2019, 18:09

It is great to learn from kandscreeley's review of Violent Leadership by Wesley Middleton, that except for minor editing lapses, this book delivers on its bold concept of positively forcing one's way to change and success. The eyebrow-raising title is a great way to re-purpose a phrase that has been linked to negative ideas and connotations, to inspire purposeful, aggressive, disruptive but positive action towards change, growth and success. I am amazed to learn from Middleton's book that violence had positive definitions in the Bible and in ancient civilizations such as Greece. Violence was defined as trying to win the benefits of the kingdom of heaven with the greatest effort and eagerness. In Latin, violence was equated with "strength, robust energy and enthusiasm." Mr. Middleton wishes to show in his book that the concept of "violent leadership" is not about doing harm to other people, rivals or adversaries. It does not seek to justify the use of physical force. It is about the intellectual, tactical and psychological methods a leader must use to force the "right issues" and attain the results that he or she seeks. It is about taking control of the change process by being courageous, forceful in terms of impact, and decisive, and by taking action at the right time. It is being proactive or anticipating problems, planning well, assessing risks right and taking risks at the right time. It is executing well through innovation and bold creativity. Congratulations to the author and thanks to this organization for making Violent Leadership Book of the Day.