The Heart Work of Modern Leadership

6 Differentiators of Exceptional Leaders

by David Grossman

Turbulent times call for exceptional leadership.
Are you ready?

In his sixth book, leadership and change communication expert David Grossman offers a groundbreaking exploration of the leader’s role in our era of unprecedented complexity.

Drawing on research with his longtime partner, The Harris Poll, Grossman reveals a troubling truth: Only 30% of leaders meet the fast-evolving needs of today's workforce.

In The Heart Work of Modern Leadership, Grossman illuminates the mounting pressures facing the C-suite—with shareholder value, AI-driven possibilities, geopolitical disruptions, and more.

The good news is, it’s not an impossible job.

Grossman identifies an adaptive mindset that helps executives thrive in today’s rapidly changing environments. Specifically, he cites that exceptional leaders integrate emotional intelligence with strategic thinking. Grossman calls this “leading with their heart in their head.”

What does that look like in practice? Compassion with calculation. Empathy with analysis. Values with decisions. And what is the impact? Greater, more sustainable performance throughout the organization.

At the book’s core are rare glimpses into twenty-nine founders and executives—each one an exceptional leader grappling with the accelerating changes of our age.

You’ll read about their tough decisions, pivotal choices, and unwavering commitments to their people. You’ll discover their shared themes and most practical takeaways. You’ll also learn about the six defining behaviors that set these outstanding performers apart.

Your rise from good to great starts now. With The Heart Work of Modern Leadership, you can move beyond simply managing your people and your pressures. You can build employees who thrive. Develop teams that innovate. And guide your organization to its greatest potential.