The Motive

By: Patrick M. Lencioni

Narrated by: Jim Frangione

Length: 2 hrs and 37 mins

Publisher's Summary

Shay was still angry but shrugged nonchalantly as if to say, it's not that big of a deal. 

"So, what am I wrong about?" 

"You're not going to want to hear this, but I have to tell you anyway." Liam paused before finishing. "You might be working hard, but you're not doing it for the company." 

"What the hell does that mean?" Shay wanted to know. Knowing that his adversary might punch him for what he was about to say, Liam responded. "You're doing it for yourself." 

New York Times best-selling author Patrick Lencioni has written a dozen books that focus on how leaders can build teams and lead organizations. In The Motive, he shifts his attention toward helping them understand the importance of why they're leading in the first place. 

In what may be his edgiest pause-resister to date, Lencioni thrusts his listeners into a day-long conversation between rival CEOs. Shay Davis is the CEO of Golden Gate Alarm, who, after just a year in his role, is beginning to worry about his job and is desperate to figure out how to turn things around. With nowhere else to turn, Shay receives some hard-to-swallow advice from the most unlikely and unwanted source - Liam Alcott, CEO of a more successful security company and his most hated opponent. 

Lencioni uses unexpected plot twists and crisp dialogue to take us on a journey that culminates in a resolution that is as unexpected as it is enlightening. As he does in his other books, he then provides a straightforward summary of the lessons from the fable, combining a clear explanation of his theory with practical advice to help executives examine their true motivation for leading. In addition to provoking listeners to honestly assess themselves, Lencioni presents action steps for changing their approach in five key areas. In doing so, he helps leaders avoid the pitfalls that stifle their organizations and even hurt the people they are meant to serve.

©2020 Patrick M. Lencioni (P)2020 Recorded Books

Patrick Lencioni does it again!

This is another most read for anyone in leadership. Listen, take notes, and make a change!

2 people found this helpful

Love these leadership fables. Always great!

This is a quick and easy read, with most completing it in just under 3 hours. I am impressed at how powerful the concept proposed is and how impactful the small book can be.

2 people found this helpful

Great stories drive home the lessons

Very profound and searching. Perhaps more important to internalize than any "how to" book on leadership.

1 person found this helpful

Yes yes yes!!

This book is an amazing depiction of how leaders tend to abdicate their roles for things that they think are fun but less important. A must read for anyone in leadership or those who are under a leader.

1 person found this helpful

Good listen during these touchy times

Enjoyed this book especially during these tough times. Reinforces what I should be focused. I’m going to be leading more meetings now.

Great book!

I recently was promoted and it scares me. I enjoy doing the busy work in my job. This book helps to cement the idea that I can be a leader. I like the the story with the application and I will definitely buy that hardback book.

A must read for any and all leaders in the work place

Definitely a top 5 book in my opinion on leadership. Very good insights and Very relatable examples that applies to real world situations

Top leadership list

Sometimes it's easy to sit on top of the mountain and not be able to see the trees.

Simple. Insightful. Even profound.

While this is the shortest of Lencioni’s books, it is by far the most insightful. As a long-time CEO, I was inspired (and chided). Responsibility motivated leadership is a joyful and meaningful way to have the greatest impact. I highly recommend this book.

Another gem from Lencioni

Pat's wisdom on leadership ceases to add value. New fundamental concepts and reinforcement on his part lessons, in his engaging and informative style. Sending copies of The Motive to my leadership team and will be topic of our next off-site. Please keep sharing, Pat.

Great book, just a little short

I've enjoyed all of the Patrick Lencioni books that I've read and this was no exception. the only downside was how short it was.