The Promises of Giants

About the Author

John Amaechi OBE, a former professional basketball player in the NBA, has had a diverse and impactful career both on and off the court. After retiring from sports, Amaechi pursued psychology, earning a Ph.D. and becoming a well-respected psychologist and leadership consultant. His work often focuses on the complexities of identity, diversity, and personal development. Amaechi is also a prolific speaker and author, known for his thoughtful and compassionate approach to leadership and personal growth. In The Promises of Giants, he leverages his unique experiences to provide deep insights into what it means to be a leader and a "giant" in today's world.

Main Idea

At the heart of The Promises of Giants lies the concept that leadership is a universal potential, not limited to those in formal positions of power. Amaechi argues that every individual has the capacity to be a "giant"—a person who positively influences those around them. This role comes with a set of promises or commitments: to oneself, to others, and to the organization or community one is part of. The book outlines these promises as a framework for personal and professional development, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, empathy, and ethical leadership. Amaechi's central message is that true leadership is about being accountable, fostering inclusion, and promoting a culture where everyone feels valued and empowered.

Table of Contents

• Part One: Promises to Yourself
  • I Promise to View Myself Critically, But Not Cruelly
  • I Promise to Commit Fully to Success
  • I Promise to be Bold and Vulnerable
  • I Promise to Act with Vigilance Against My Biases
  • I Promise to Reject Excuses and Embrace Discomfort
  • I Promise to Tend to My Mind and Body
• Part Two: Promises to Individuals
  • I Promise to Reflect Your Potential
  • I Promise to See You as an Individual and Not as a Job Description
  • I Promise to Deliver Timely and Effective Feedback
  • I Promise to Be Present, and Not Only When I Need You
• Part Three: Promises to the Organization
  • I Promise to Bear Responsibility for the Driving Culture
  • I Promise to View the Organization Critically and Truthfully
  • I Promise to Promote Everyday Inclusion Based on Earned Disclosure
  • I Promise to Create an Environment That People Never Want to Leave

Part One: Promises to Yourself

Amaechi's exploration of self-leadership begins with the essential practice of self-reflection. In the chapter "I Promise to View Myself Critically, But Not Cruelly," he advocates for a balanced approach to self-assessment. This involves recognizing one's strengths and weaknesses without harsh self-criticism. According to Amaechi, leaders must develop a clear and accurate understanding of themselves to navigate their paths effectively. He states:

"Without an accurate understanding of your flaws and fortes, the starting point of your journey forward will be unclear, immediately setting you off course." - John Amaechi

This self-awareness is foundational for authenticity, a trait that Amaechi emphasizes as crucial for effective leadership. Authentic leaders can connect with others more deeply because they present themselves genuinely, without pretense. The promise to view oneself critically, yet with kindness, serves as a cornerstone for this authentic leadership.