REFLECTIONS ON LIFE AND WHAT IT MEANS TO LIVE FULLY…

Book Review: How to Think Like a CEO and Act Like a Leader by Michael F. Andrew

As someone aspiring to step into a leadership role, How to Think Like a CEO and Act Like a Leader by Michael F. Andrew felt like a mentor in book form, offering guidance that goes beyond surface-level tips and really digs into the mindset and behaviors required to lead effectively. Reading this book felt like a practical and insightful roadmap that addressed both the intellectual and emotional aspects of leadership in a way that resonated deeply with me.

Treat issues coldly and people warmly.

What stood out to me right away was Andrew’s focus on developing a strategic mindset, something I knew was important but hadn’t fully grasped before. The idea of thinking like a CEO—always keeping the bigger picture in mind—challenged me to shift my focus from the daily grind to seeing how decisions fit into the larger mission and long-term goals of an organization. This shift felt like a turning point, a realization that leading isn’t just about managing tasks but about aligning actions with a vision that drives everything forward.

Be excellent at listening but also at asking questions, dumb ones too!

One of the most valuable lessons for me was the emphasis on decision-making. Andrew talks about the weight of making tough choices and how true leaders don’t shy away from taking responsibility for the outcomes. I appreciated how he broke down the complexities of decision-making, balancing data and instinct. It pushed me to think more critically about how I approach challenges and reinforced the importance of being bold and decisive, even when the answers aren’t clear-cut.

We always persuade others more by the depth of our convictions and our enthusiasm than by logic and proof.

Another element that deeply resonated with me was the focus on emotional intelligence. Andrew makes it clear that being a successful leader isn’t just about having the right strategy—it’s also about understanding people, managing emotions, and fostering strong relationships. As someone who values empathy, this part of the book reinforced my belief that leaders need to be emotionally aware and communicative. It’s not enough to have the answers; you need to connect with your team, inspire trust, and lead by example.

When giving feedback, focus on the thing (behaviour, issue or performance) and not the person.

The book also dives into the importance of adaptability, which felt particularly relevant in today’s constantly changing world. Andrew’s advice on being open to change, learning from failure, and staying resilient felt like a much-needed reminder. As I aim to grow in my career, I realize that the ability to pivot and adapt will be crucial, especially in an environment where things move quickly and unpredictably.

When receiving feedback, consider it a gift: accept it and say Thank you.

What I loved most about this book is how it constantly brings leadership back to action. Andrew emphasizes that thinking like a CEO must be coupled with acting like a leader—taking responsibility, leading with integrity, and setting the standard for others to follow. That idea of leading by example really hit home for me. It reinforced my desire to embody the values I want to instill in others, whether it’s work ethic, transparency, or innovation.

Surround yourself with people smarter than you!

Overall, How to Think Like a CEO and Act Like a Leader felt like more than just a leadership guide—it was a personal call to action. It pushed me to reflect on where I am now, where I want to go, and how I can get there. For anyone looking to grow into a leadership role, this book offers the clarity, confidence, and actionable advice you need to make that leap.