Books

Are you a leader struggling to do better . . . to be better?

We all have in common the universal struggle to improve. Which is not just knowing your worst tendencies; it’s also learning how to manage them. And that means grappling with yourself.

The engaging narratives in Grappling make the challenging work of self-improvement easier. Leadership consultant and author Robert E. Kaplan has written parables based on real people who represent a variety of leader archetypes. You will witness these leaders at work and at home—with their basic character in play, for good or ill—as they strive to improve. Whether you identify most with the combustible manager, the leader who had a painful childhood, the executive struggling with feedback, the general manager who takes too much responsibility, the successor to a founder, or any another leader in these pages—Grappling will impart these valuable lessons:

  • Blind spots get in the way, and they’re not easily removed.
  • There is no better way to improve than to truly internalize your strengths.
  • Fundamental change is possible.
  • How to make good use of a professional.

If, like many of us, you want to—or have to—change in some way but find yourself stuck, Grappling makes the self-improvement quest relatable, inspirational, and within your reach.

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PRAISE FOR GRAPPLING

“I love this book. The stories are page turners. I couldn’t wait to see how each one turned out. And they are filled with learning. Bob has done a masterful job as a writer and a wise teacher. Grappling inspires and resonates profoundly.”

Wendy Foster, retired CEO, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts

“Through the power of storytelling, Bob Kaplan shows us the myriad challenges that we all face in our personal and professional lives—and the effectiveness of true executive coaching that helps us get to know ourselves and improve!!!”

Jose Manuel Madero, former CEO, Grupo Bepensa

“Drawing on his rich experience, Bob brings to life what it’s like for executives to unlock their full potential. The stories, based on real people, are inspiring.”

Jim Ryan, retired CEO, Grainger

“Bob Kaplan has spent a lifetime helping executives improve themselves. In these interesting short stories, you will get a peek into how this complex process works.”

Karen G. Ferraro, Chief Human Resources Officer, Medline, 2012-2023

“Even if you aren’t lucky enough to work with Bob directly, you’ll benefit from these stories based on the struggles of real people just like you, who benefitted from the chance to dig deeper and make better choices about how to live their lives.”

Bill Pasmore, Professor of Practice, Department of Organization & Leadership, Teachers College, Columbia University SVP, Center for Creative Leadership