Leadership is the #1 factor in navigating change yet poor leadership is consistently identified as the biggest barrier to adaptability. In an era where transformation is constant, leaders must develop their AQ® (Adaptability Intelligence) to guide teams and organizations toward success.
In The Leader’s Ultimate Guide to Successful Transformation, Ross Thornley and his expert contributors introduce a data-driven, science-backed framework for adaptability. Whether you’re a CEO, executive, or emerging leader, this book will give you the mindset, tools, and strategies to become a true transformational leader in an ever-evolving world.
“As leaders, we have the responsibility to envision and create a future where we would rejoice in the playground we have built for our children.” Ross Thornley
Inside, you'll learn how to:
Master the A.C.E. Model of AQ, the first scientifically validated framework for adaptability.
Develop adaptability muscles to navigate disruption, uncertainty, and organizational change.
Overcome corporate resistance and integrate AQ into leadership strategies.
Understand the financial & strategic benefits of building an adaptable organization.
Apply real-world case studies to strengthen your leadership transformation journey.
Whether you lead a startup, a Fortune 500 company, or a global team, this ultimate guide will help you turn change into opportunity and future-proof your leadership.
“AQ is the missing piece in leadership development. This book provides the framework every leader needs to navigate change successfully.”
— Jason Slater, Chief of IT & Digitization, UNIDO
“This book is a powerful assist in understanding individuals, groups, and organizations to leverage adaptability as a critical capability.”
— Exec Coach, USA
“I love the idea that adaptability can be developed, measured, and strengthened—this book shows exactly how.”
— Andrea Evans, C-Space
Who Should Read This?
Business leaders & executives navigating complex transformations. HR professionals & leadership coaches developing adaptability in teams. Entrepreneurs & change agents seeking a competitive advantage in disruption. Anyone looking to lead with resilience, agility, and confidence.
What’s Inside?
81 pages of leadership insights & adaptability strategies
An exploration on AQ®’s impact on leadership effectiveness
Practical techniques to enhance adaptability in individuals & teams
Case studies from real-world applications in business & government
Book Structure:
state of play
Understanding the leadership challenges of a rapidly changing world
Why traditional leadership models are failing in times of disruption
the power of adaptibility
Why AQ Is a Cheat-Code for Leadership – How Adaptability Intelligence (AQ) is the key to future-proofing leadership
AQ-Environment – The role of culture, mindset, and environment in driving adaptability
what is adaptibility
The Science of Adaptability – Understanding the psychological and neurological factors that shape how leaders respond to change
the amygdala hijack
Shift from React to Respond – How leaders can override fear-based decision-making in uncertain times
The Corporate Immune System – Overcoming resistance to change in organizations
six insights from top leaders
Lead from the Heart – Why emotional intelligence and empathy are essential for transformation
Continuous Learning – The importance of curiosity, growth mindset, and unlearning outdated leadership habits
Unlocking Potential in Others – How great leaders empower teams to thrive in uncertainty
Forward Thinking – Developing strategic foresight to navigate complex challenges
Radical Truth – The role of honesty, transparency, and psychological safety in high-performance leadership
Optimism & Hope – Cultivating a mindset that turns challenges into opportunities
six insights from top leaders
Digital Transformation – Leveraging AI, automation, and data-driven decision-making to drive change
Conclusion – A roadmap for leaders to embed adaptability into their organizations