Add Value--Improve the Status Quo

by Paul B. Thornton

If you are a new leader or preparing to become a leader, this book will help you clarify your core beliefs and values. It provides several leadership models and frameworks that will help you determine the best actions to take in each situation. It will energize you to be a leader who adds value and improves the status quo.

If you are an experienced leader, this book provides an opportunity to review your core beliefs and the approaches you use to lead yourself and others. It will also provide some new insights and ideas that will help you be more effective.

Regardless of your experience, sharpening your ideas and developing adaptability will make you more effective. There is always more to learn.

85 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 2, 2024

Reviews

[Aarush Suri · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book felt like a leadership recalibration. Whether you're just stepping into a management role or have been leading for decades, Thornton offers frameworks and reflections that help you fine-tune your leadership approach. It doesn't overwhelm with jargon—just clear, structured thought. Highly recommend for a yearly reread.

[Krisha Oberoi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thornton skips fluff and delivers a straight-to-the-point guide for becoming a value-driven leader. I appreciated how every concept was tied to real actions rather than theory. It’s a book that respects your time and upgrades your mindset.

[Aditya Juneja · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a leader for over 15 years, I didn’t expect to learn much. I was wrong. This book challenged my existing belief systems and gave me a nudge to explore new leadership lenses. It’s as much about self-awareness as it is about team management.

[Sanya Mehta · Rating 5 out of 5]

It reads like a wise mentor guiding you through self-discovery and practical improvement. The book encourages leaders to reflect deeply on their internal compass and equips them with adaptable strategies for real-world situations. It’s empowering and humble in tone.

[Kabir Bhardwaj · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked this up during a career crossroads, and it helped me reframe my approach to problem-solving and influence. I especially loved the parts about energizing others and enhancing systems—Thornton makes leadership feel dynamic again.

[RudraTalwar · Rating 5 out of 5]

No frills, no filler—just solid leadership principles laid out with clarity. This book reminded me why I chose to lead and how much responsibility it actually carries. One of those reads that lingers in your mind.

[Advika Kapur · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes leadership books feel like manuals of perfection. Not this one. Thornton makes it clear that leadership is a continuous journey. He inspires you to strive for better without making you feel inadequate. That’s a rare balance.

[PranavSarin · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I liked most was the author’s tone—it’s practical, respectful, and collaborative. He speaks to you, not at you. I’ve read several leadership books, but this one actually made me want to act differently the next day.

[Diya Saxena · Rating 5 out of 5]

From clarifying your core values to creating measurable impact, Add Value—Improve the Status Quo equips you with leadership frameworks that can be immediately applied. Great read for people managers, entrepreneurs, and even educators.

[Aadhya Gulati · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thornton does a brilliant job unpacking leadership in a way that's both reflective and practical. The frameworks he presents aren't just theory—they're applicable. I loved how he emphasizes aligning your actions with core values. Perfect for anyone serious about being an impactful leader.

[Ishika Agarwal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whether you’re a fresh manager or a seasoned executive, this book meets you where you are. It’s not preachy or overwhelming—just clear, concise, and motivating. The real-world examples made the insights even more valuable.

[Samar Duggal · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book gave me a new lens to evaluate my leadership style. The idea of improving the status quo resonated deeply. It encouraged me to ask better questions and be a proactive change-maker in my organization.

[Reyansh Bhasin · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a long-time manager, I appreciated how Thornton revisits the fundamentals while offering fresh perspectives. The content pushed me to revisit my ""why"" and think about how I can add more value day-to-day.

[RheaKohli · Rating 5 out of 5]

This isn’t your average leadership book—it inspires action. Thornton’s message about adaptability is timely and essential in today’s fast-paced world. A must-read if you want to lead with clarity and purpose.

[Kunal Mahajan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I appreciated the balance between strategic models and actionable steps. This book is not just about thinking like a leader, but actually becoming one. It’s structured in a way that keeps you engaged till the end.

[Vivaan Arora · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the straight-to-the-point tone. Each chapter adds a nugget of wisdom. It doesn’t drag or overcomplicate—perfect for busy professionals looking for clarity in leadership.

[NainaRathore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thornton encourages constant growth, reflection, and adaptability. I’ve recommended this to two colleagues already—it helps you see leadership as an evolving practice, not a fixed trait.

[Simran Sethia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book felt like a compass guiding me toward becoming a more values-driven leader. The exercises and prompts helped me evaluate where I am and where I want to be.

[Yuvraj Bajaj · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thornton provides tools, not just theories. From evaluating your current mindset to adjusting your strategies, this book equips you to lead with integrity and impact. I’ll be revisiting it often.