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The Habit of Excellence

Why British Army Leadership Works

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The Habit of Excellence

By: Lt. Col Langley Sharp
Narrated by: Lt. Col Langley Sharp
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About this listen

The Habit of Excellence is a unique insight into British Army leadership, explaining what makes it unique, what makes it so effective, and what civilians can take from it to become better leaders themselves.

Developed in some of the most demanding situations imaginable over centuries of war and peace, army leadership is a sophisticated endeavour that has kept pace with societal change and the challenges of the modern world. In the military, the stakes couldn't be higher, and exceptional leadership is crucial every day.

Drawing on the latest research in military history, sociology, psychology and behavioural science and with compelling illustration from British Army operations across the centuries, Lt Col Langley Sharp MBE goes beyond the latest leadership fads to distil into one peerlessly authoritative work the essence of leading and leadership from one of the world's most revered institutions. It is essential listening for leaders and followers no matter what organisation they work for - it is essential listening for the world today.

©2021 Lt Col Langley Sharp (P)2021 Penguin Audio Leadership Management & Leadership Military Personal Development Personal Success Politicians Politics & Activism Business Inspiring

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All stars
Most relevant
One of the best leadership books I’ve read and will implement this in my leadership function.

Just, brilliant

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This is an excellent book, full of fantastic information and insight. Great for any current serving, wanting to join or anyone interested in leadership or the British army structure. I listen to this twice in a row as I found it fascinating.

Excellent book... One of the best I've listened to

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This book is a must read for all current and aspiring leaders and managers in all industries.
There is a transferable message in every chapter from military to civilian industry that everyone can benefit from.

It’s also an essential read for ex or serving Army NCO’s (non commissioned officers). The infantry are very good at developing an individual into something they don’t want you to know or realise for fear of you utilising the skill outside of the Army. What I found within this book is this for NCO’s is leadership skill. Officers are told they are leaders. NCO’s for the most part are not. This book for me, an ex corporal in The Royal Welsh, has been very enlightening and empowering.

A must read!!

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very good material on leadership in the British Army but with plenty of references and examples from other military and civilian organisations and companies. Will be valuable reading not just for UK Army. Author does a reasonable job of reading it but clearly not a pro and it makes it a bit monotone and clunky. I will listen again and again though

Excellent insights

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A well scripted and researched journey into modern military leadership systems. Lt Col Sharp is humble and professional in his delivery. It was a brave move narrating it himself but I grew to enjoy it. Having chatted to the author at Sandhurst, he is a knowledgable and talented guy. I wish him luck and success in his future endeavours.

Great for the military minded

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