True North by Bill George

Last updated: Jul 11, 2023

Summary of True North by Bill George

True North by Bill George is a book that explores the concept of authentic leadership and provides guidance on how individuals can discover their true selves to become effective leaders. The author, a former CEO of Medtronic, draws on his personal experiences and interviews with over 125 leaders to present a comprehensive framework for leadership development.

The book begins by emphasizing the importance of self-awareness in leadership. George argues that leaders must first understand their values, passions, and motivations in order to lead with authenticity. He introduces the concept of the "True North" as the internal compass that guides leaders in making ethical decisions and staying true to their core values.

George then delves into the process of self-discovery, encouraging readers to reflect on their life stories and identify pivotal moments that have shaped their values and beliefs. He emphasizes the need for leaders to align their personal and professional lives, as well as to develop a strong support network that can provide honest feedback and guidance.

The book also explores the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership. George argues that leaders must be able to understand and manage their own emotions, as well as empathize with and connect with others. He provides practical strategies for developing emotional intelligence, such as active listening, empathy, and self-reflection.

Furthermore, True North addresses the challenges and pressures that leaders face, including the temptation to compromise their values for short-term gains. George emphasizes the importance of staying true to one's True North, even in the face of adversity. He provides numerous examples of leaders who have demonstrated integrity and resilience in difficult situations.

The final section of the book focuses on leadership development and growth. George outlines a five-step process for becoming an authentic leader, which includes understanding one's life story, developing self-awareness, practicing self-discipline, building supportive relationships, and staying grounded in one's values. He also emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and personal growth throughout one's leadership journey.

In conclusion, True North by Bill George is a comprehensive guide to authentic leadership. It emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and staying true to one's values. The book provides practical advice and real-life examples to help individuals develop their own authentic leadership style and make a positive impact in their organizations and communities.

1. Authentic leadership is about being true to yourself

In "True North," Bill George emphasizes the importance of authentic leadership, which involves being true to yourself and leading with your values and beliefs. Authentic leaders are self-aware, genuine, and transparent, and they inspire trust and loyalty in their followers. They are not afraid to show vulnerability and admit their mistakes, as they understand that it is through these experiences that they grow and learn.

By being authentic, leaders create an environment where others feel safe to be themselves and express their ideas and opinions. This fosters a culture of openness, collaboration, and innovation. Authentic leaders also have a clear sense of purpose and align their actions with their values, which gives them a strong sense of direction and helps them make decisions that are in line with their principles.

2. Leadership is a journey of self-discovery

According to Bill George, leadership is not a destination but a journey of self-discovery. It requires continuous learning, reflection, and growth. True leaders are constantly seeking feedback and self-assessment to understand their strengths, weaknesses, and blind spots. They are open to new experiences and perspectives, which allows them to adapt and evolve as leaders.

Through self-discovery, leaders gain a deeper understanding of their values, passions, and purpose. This self-awareness enables them to lead with authenticity and make decisions that are aligned with their true selves. It also helps them build meaningful relationships and connect with others on a deeper level, as they are able to empathize and understand different perspectives.

3. Leadership is about serving others

Bill George emphasizes the importance of servant leadership, which is about putting the needs of others before your own. True leaders understand that their role is to serve and support their team members, enabling them to reach their full potential. They create a culture of empowerment, where individuals are encouraged to take ownership and contribute their unique skills and talents.

Servant leaders prioritize the development and well-being of their team members, providing them with the necessary resources, guidance, and opportunities for growth. They foster a sense of trust and collaboration, where everyone feels valued and appreciated. By serving others, leaders create a positive and inclusive work environment, where individuals are motivated and inspired to give their best.

4. Leadership requires emotional intelligence

Emotional intelligence is a crucial aspect of effective leadership, as highlighted in "True North." Leaders with high emotional intelligence are able to understand and manage their own emotions, as well as empathize with the emotions of others. They are skilled at building relationships, resolving conflicts, and inspiring and motivating their team members.

By developing emotional intelligence, leaders are better equipped to navigate the complexities of human interactions and make informed decisions. They are able to create a supportive and inclusive work environment, where individuals feel valued and understood. Emotional intelligence also enables leaders to effectively communicate their vision and goals, inspiring others to align their efforts towards a common purpose.

5. Leadership requires resilience and perseverance

True leaders face numerous challenges and setbacks along their journey, but what sets them apart is their resilience and perseverance. They are able to bounce back from failures and setbacks, learning from them and using them as opportunities for growth. They maintain a positive mindset and remain focused on their long-term goals.

Resilient leaders also have the ability to adapt to change and navigate uncertainty. They are not afraid to take calculated risks and make tough decisions when necessary. Their perseverance and determination inspire their team members to overcome obstacles and stay committed to the shared vision.

6. Leadership is about continuous learning and growth

According to Bill George, true leaders are lifelong learners. They are curious, open-minded, and constantly seeking new knowledge and experiences. They invest in their own personal and professional development, as well as the development of their team members.

Continuous learning and growth enable leaders to stay relevant and adapt to the ever-changing business landscape. They are able to anticipate and respond to emerging trends and challenges, making informed decisions that drive success. By fostering a culture of learning, leaders create an environment where individuals are encouraged to take risks, innovate, and continuously improve.

7. Leadership requires ethical decision-making

Ethical decision-making is a fundamental aspect of leadership, as highlighted in "True North." True leaders prioritize integrity and ethical behavior in all their actions and decisions. They are guided by a strong moral compass and hold themselves accountable to high ethical standards.

Leaders who make ethical decisions earn the trust and respect of their team members, stakeholders, and society as a whole. They create a culture of transparency and fairness, where individuals feel safe to speak up and act with integrity. Ethical leadership also contributes to long-term success, as it builds a strong reputation and fosters sustainable relationships.

8. Leadership is about making a positive impact

Ultimately, true leadership is about making a positive impact on individuals, organizations, and society. Leaders who are driven by a sense of purpose and a desire to create a better world inspire others to join them in their mission. They are committed to leaving a lasting legacy and making a difference.

Leaders who make a positive impact prioritize the well-being and development of their team members, as well as the broader community. They are socially responsible and strive to create sustainable and inclusive organizations. By leading with purpose and making a positive impact, leaders inspire others to do the same, creating a ripple effect of positive change.