The Art of Possibility: Transforming Professional and Personal Life

The Art of Possibility offers a set of breakthrough practices for creativity in all human enterprises. This inspirational book is a synthesis of Rosamund Stone Zander's knowledge of cutting-edge psychology and Benjamin Zander's experiences as the conductor of the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra. Infused with the energy of their dynamic partnership, the book joins together Ben's extraordinary talent as a mover and shaker, teacher, and communicator with Rosamund's genius for creating innovative paradigms for personal and professional fulfillment. In lively counterpoint, the authors provide us with a deep sense of the powerful role that the notion of possibility can play in every aspect of our lives.The Zanders' deceptively simple practices are based on two premises: that life is composed as a story ("it's all invented") and that, with new definitions, much more is possible than people ordinarily think. The book shifts our perspective with uplifting stories, parables, and anecdotes. From "Giving an A" to the mysterious "Rule Number 6" to "Leading from Any Chair"--the account of Ben's stunning realization that the conductor/leader's power is directly linked to how much greatness he is willing to grant to others--each practice offers an opportunity for personal and organizational transformation. "In Their Playing You Hear not only precision, color and balance, but thunder, lightning and the language of the heart." This is what the Boston Globe said about a performance by conductor Benjamin Zander with the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra, but it could apply equally to the Zanders' inspirational book, the product of a synthesis of the diverse worlds of the symphony orchestra and cutting-edge psychology.The Art of Possibility offers a set of breakthrough practices for creativity in all human enterprises. Infused with the energy of their dynamic partnership, the book joins together Ben's extraordinary talent as a mover and shaker, teacher, and communicator, with Rosamund Stone Zander's genius for creating innovative paradigms for personal and professional fulfillment. In lively counterpoint, the authors provide us with a deep sense of the powerful role that the notion of possibility can play in every aspect of our lives.The Zanders' deceptively simple practices are based on two premises: that life is composed as a story ("it's all invented") and that, with new definitions, much more is possible than people ordinarily think. The book shifts our perspective with uplifting stories, parables, and anecdotes from the authors' personal experiences as well as from famous and everyday heroes. From "Giving an A," to the mysterious "Rule Number 6," to "Leading from Any Chair" -- the account of Ben's stunning realization that the conductor/leader's power is directly linked to how much greatness he is willing to grant to others -- each practice offers an opportunity for personal and organizational transformation.The Art of Possibility provides a lifealtering approach to fulfilling dreams large and small. The Zanders invite us all to become passionate communicators, leaders, and performers whose lives radiate possibility into the world. Presenting Twelve Breakthrough Practices For Bringing Creativity Into All Human Endeavors, This Book Is The Dynamic Product Of An Extraordinary Partnership. It Combines Benjamin Zander's Experience As Conductor Of The Boston Philharmonic And His Talent As A Teacher And Communicator With Psychotherapist Rosamund Stone Zander's Genius For Designing Innovative Paradigms For Personal And Professional Fulfillment. The Authors' Harmoniously Interwoven Perspectives Provide A Deep Sense Of The Powerful Role That The Notion Of Possibility Can Play In Every Aspect Of Life. Through Uplifting Stories, Parables, And Personal Anecdotes, The Authors Invite Readers To Become Passionate Communicators, Leaders, And Performers Whose Lives Radiate Possibility Into The World. Launching The Journey -- The Practices -- 1. It's All Invented -- 2. Stepping Into A Universe Of Possibility -- 3. Giving An A -- 4. Being A Contribution -- 5. Leading From Any Chair -- 6. Rule Number 6 -- 7. The Way Things Are -- 8. Giving Way To Passion -- 9. Lighting A Spark -- 10. Being The Board -- 11. Creating Frameworks For Possibility -- 12. Telling The We Story -- Coda. Rosamund Stone Zander, Benjamin Zander. Includes Bibliographical References.