Leading Into Unknown Waters: Liminality as Threshold into the Future addresses the issue of liminality, or living in threshold spaces during vast changes in various fields including the business world, social services, non-profits, and religious organisations. Change is problematic when it is met with reactive methods rather than the intentional call to leaders to adopt particular practices for organisations that purposefully promote living into liminal space as a threshold toward a new, positive beginning. The primary purpose of the book is for leaders to learn how to lead well in these circumstances, within a variety of contexts, inviting others in their organisations or groups to de-polarise, adapt, and eventually thrive during transitory times and in rapidly changing conditions. Specifically, the book provides discussion about a particular kind of communal learning space that allows for adventure, vulnerability, and a deeper wisdom than individuals bring on their own. The second purpose is to decrease the anxiety in these times with a suggested path forward for leaders and followers that invites us out of fear-based stances and into purposeful and meaningful work together. The new contribution is the intersection of various fields into the leadership discipline from the perspective of a coach/teacher/religious leader, incorporating spirituality through metaphor in to the discussion of leadership in liminal space without using the religious jargon or advocating a particular religious stance.

About the Author
Lisa Withrow is the Dewire Professor of Christian Leadership at the Methodist theological School in Ohio, and has published work on Church Leadership, pastoral care and women's studies.

Reviews
"Lisa Withrow has created an authoritative addition to the growing canon of liminality studies. Leadership in Unknown Waters is unrivalled in its unique combination of the two disciplines of liminality and leadership. Withrow leads the reader to some of the great thresholds of life, suggesting a way forward through the guiding symbol of water. Refreshing in its avoidance of checklists and quick fixes, this landmark contribution will help form the next generation of transformative leaders." Dr Timothy Carson, author of Liminal Reality and Transformational Power, editor of Neither Here nor There: The Many Voices of Liminality "Lisa Withrow's model for transformation calls us to value the disruptions and in-between spaces where possibility and creativity arise from chaos. Grounded in decades of research, teaching, practice, and personal experience, she brings wisdom for moving through the wilderness. Refreshingly human-centred, open-ended, trusting, and authentic; Withrow doesn't just give directions, she teaches us to navigate." Mark Miller-McLemore, Associate Professor of the Practice of Ministry, Vanderbilt Divinity School "The uncertainty and disruption of liminal space can paralyze individuals and organizations. Leadership in Unknown Waters is required reading for leaders wishing to move beyond 'checklists' aimed at immediate survival. Instead, Withrow offers theoretically-grounded, unique practices that co-create transformative futures for groups, teams, organizations, and stakeholders in the twenty-first century." Rev. Dr. Sandra Selby, Senior Community Chaplain, Tough Work Outreach



Book Information
ISBN 9780718895518
Author Lisa Withrow
Format Paperback
Page Count 187
Imprint Lutterworth Press
Publisher James Clarke & Co Ltd