The Tortoise Usually Wins is a delightful exploration of the theory of quiet leadership. Written for reluctant leaders, it interacts with three key biblical images of leadership - the leader as servant, shepherd and steward - and links them with some of the key virtues of quiet leadership - modesty, restraint, tenacity, interdependence and other-centeredness. Exploding the myth that the good is the enemy of the best, it argues that the reverse is more often true, with images of unattainable perfection crippling competent people from getting on with the task of doing genuinely good things. The book strips leadership of some of its mystique, arguing that the bulk of leadership is about helping groups decide the right things to do and then getting on and doing them in an atmosphere that brings the best out of others. Brian Harris is the principal of a highly regarded theological seminary and also pastors a thriving local church, so the book carries the wisdom of both professor and pastor, satisfying the reader both intellectually and practically. These insights are supplemented by interviews with significant quiet leaders from around the world, ensuring a rich feast for prospective and current reluctant leaders. 'Books on leadership are today two a penny. Just occasionally, however, one of these books might stand head and shoulders above most of the others, and to my delight The Tortoise Usually Wins falls into that category. Furthermore, so many books on leadership are written for natural leaders; whereas, as the author makes clear, most churches are led by "quiet leaders" who know they are not great, but nonetheless, are "tenacious and committed to the task and willing to work co-operatively with others to achieve it". I can see many church leaders benefitting from this book. I warmly commend this unusual book.' Paul Beasley-Murray, Senior Minister, Central Baptist Church, Chelmsford; Chair of Ministry Today UK

About the Author
Dr Brian Harris is a sought-out speaker, teacher, writer and consultant. A widely respected theologian, after 17 years as principal of Perth's Vose Seminary, in 2021 he became the founding director of AVENIR, a future focused Leadership Institute which aims to train the leaders the world needs. Brian also serves as Pastor at Large for the Perth based Carey Group and is a non-executive director of the Australian College of Theology. You can keep updated about Brian's books, blogs and podcasts at his website: https://brianharrisauthor.com/


Book Information
ISBN 9781842277874
Author Brian Harris
Format Paperback
Page Count 200
Imprint Paternoster Press
Publisher Send The Light
Weight(grams) 257g
Dimensions(mm) 216mm * 140mm * 17mm