Still Surprised

About the Author

Warren Bennis is renowned as a leadership guru, whose pioneering ideas and teachings have significantly shaped modern leadership practices. Born in 1925, Bennis has made profound contributions as a scholar, author, and mentor. He served as the founding chairman of USC's Leadership Institute and was a distinguished professor of business administration at the USC Marshall School of Business. Bennis has authored and co-authored over 30 books on leadership, change, and management, making him one of the most influential figures in the field. His collaboration with Patricia Ward Biederman, a prize-winning journalist and former staff writer at The Los Angeles Times, brought his memoir, Still Surprised: A Memoir of a Life in Leadership, to life.

Main Idea

In Still Surprised: A Memoir of a Life in Leadership, Warren Bennis reflects on his life's journey, revealing how personal experiences, challenges, and pivotal moments have shaped his understanding and theories of leadership. The memoir underscores the importance of self-discovery, resilience, and continuous learning in becoming an effective leader. Bennis's story is a testament to how leaders must evolve and adapt, constantly redefining themselves in the face of new challenges and surprises.

Table of Contents

1. Prelude
2. The Crucible of War
3. Launch
4. Rites of Passage
5. Great Groups
6. Fighting the Bull
7. Going State
8. A Year at Sea
9. Coming Home

Prelude

Bennis begins his memoir by reflecting on his early life and the influences that shaped his path. From his college days, he discovered a passion for writing and storytelling, which allowed him to escape an ordinary existence. Bennis acknowledges that World War II was a significant turning point, offering him the first opportunity to lead and transforming his outlook on life. This period marked the beginning of his journey into leadership, where he learned that effective leadership requires one to become an integrated person, capable of self-discovery and continuous growth.

"Leadership is a performance art and most of us become leaders only when we are cast in that role." - Warren Bennis

The Crucible of War

During World War II, Bennis served as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army. His experiences in the war taught him invaluable lessons about leadership, teamwork, and resilience. One of the most impactful moments was observing Captain Bessinger, who exemplified the importance of listening and respecting one's team. Bennis's time in the military highlighted the critical role of taking care of people, which became a foundational principle in his leadership philosophy.

"One of the most important things he did was listen to his men - a good way to get valuable information, but also evidence of respect for them." - Warren Bennis

Launch

After the war, Bennis attended Antioch College, where he encountered a dynamic and engaging environment. Here, he met his first mentor, Doug McGregor, who profoundly influenced his academic and professional trajectory. McGregor introduced Bennis to group dynamics and the social sciences, setting the stage for his future work in leadership. Antioch's progressive approach and emphasis on practical experience allowed Bennis to develop his ideas and theories in a nurturing and intellectually stimulating setting.

Rites of Passage

Following his time at Antioch, Bennis pursued graduate studies at MIT, where he encountered rigorous academic challenges and influential mentors like economist Paul Samuelson. His experiences in Cambridge, including a transformative year at the London School of Economics, deepened his understanding of group dynamics and psychoanalysis. These formative years were marked by intense introspection and professional growth, as Bennis navigated the evolving landscape of social science and leadership studies.

Great Groups

Bennis's exploration of group dynamics led him to the National Training Laboratories (NTL) and the concept of T-groups. These groups, which scrutinized their own processes as they evolved, became a crucial tool for studying and facilitating change. The transformative power of T-groups reinforced Bennis's belief in the importance of candid communication, empathy, and the capacity to listen - qualities that are essential for effective leadership.

"Paying undivided, respectful attention inevitably makes you more empathic, one of the most important and undervalued leadership skills." - Warren Bennis

Fighting the Bull

In 1967, Bennis took on the role of provost of social sciences at the State University of New York at Buffalo. This position tested his leadership theories in practice, as he navigated the challenges of academic administration and campus unrest. Bennis's tenure at Buffalo was marked by both excitement and turmoil, as he sought to implement innovative programs and foster a culture of excellence. His experiences here underscored the importance of understanding and respecting an organization's existing culture before attempting to change it.