Around the Corner to Around the World

About the Author

Robert M. Rosenberg served as the CEO of Dunkin’ Donuts from 1963 to 1998. Under his leadership, the company grew from a regional family business to one of America’s most beloved brands. After retiring, Rosenberg taught at Babson College's Graduate School and served on the boards of other leading food service companies, including Domino’s Pizza and Sonic Restaurants. His extensive experience in the food service industry provides invaluable insights into business growth and leadership.

Main Idea

In Around the Corner to Around the World, Robert Rosenberg shares the lessons he learned over his 35-year tenure as CEO of Dunkin’ Donuts. The book details the strategic decisions, challenges, and triumphs that shaped Dunkin’ Donuts into a global brand. Rosenberg offers practical advice and inspirational insights for entrepreneurs and business leaders, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, leadership, and continuous innovation.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Why Creativity Leaps Matter
3. The 3iCreativity™ Model
4. Flow Between Wonder and Rigor
5. Inquire: Ask a Better Friggin’ Question
6. Improvise: Leverage Organized Chaos
7. Intuit: Put Bravery Before Mastery
8. Commune: Come Together to Create
9. Forecast: Amplify What Is Uniquely Human
10. Get Out of the Building: Final Thoughts on Increasing Your CQ

Introduction

The introduction sets the stage by comparing a physical leap to a creativity leap. Rosenberg explains that both require vision, a running start, the suspension of judgment, and trust in the unknown. A leap propels us forward into new territory, emphasizing the importance of taking risks and embracing uncertainty. He vividly describes how leaps in creativity, much like physical leaps, necessitate a forward motion driven by a clear vision and the courage to overcome barriers.

Why Creativity Leaps Matter

Rosenberg asserts that creativity is the engine for innovation, vital for crossing boundaries and solving complex problems. He argues that everyone is inherently creative and that honing this competency is essential for personal and organizational success. He introduces the 3iCreativity™ model—Inquiry, Improvisation, and Intuition—as the framework for developing creativity. Rosenberg highlights that creativity is not just about producing art; it’s about thinking differently in any field, from law to plumbing to design.

"To be human is to be hardwired to be creative." - Robert M. Rosenberg

This quote underscores the universality of creativity. Rosenberg's argument is that creativity is embedded in our DNA, a fundamental part of being human that can be nurtured and developed through deliberate practice.

The 3iCreativity™ Model

Rosenberg breaks down the 3iCreativity™ model into its components: