The obstacles facing all companies today were relatively nonexistent not too long ago--increasingly rapid and disruptive innovation, economic instability as we’ve never experienced before, environmental degradation, increasing stakeholder power, just to name a few--yet far too many companies are still mindlessly applying the old rules of business and expecting the same stellar results that last worked successfully for them literally a millennium ago!The New Corporate Facts of Life explains how myopically chasing quarterly results, producing the same product the same way, issuing directives to increasingly disengaged employees, and many other oldie-but-not-goldies have become outdated practices that many are using still to their detriment and eventual demise. Based on interviews with over 50 top executives and thought leaders, including Coca-Cola Enterprises CEO John Brock, Georgia Tech president G.P. “Bud” Peterson, and author Peter Senge, this indispensable book for the twenty-first-century business recounts how leading-edge companies have begun reshaping strategy, culture, vision, engagement, and leadership in order to reach new heights in this constantly changing world.Change is the only constant in business--and as the environment, technology, and way of life changes, so must the strategies and operations of the company that wishes to remain relevant. The New Corporate Facts of Life offers a bird’s-eye view of the shifting landscape and reveals how any organization, large or small, can begin creating a profitable, sustainable future.

'In her moving and sympathetic book, Paula Knight charts the emotional cost of the pursuit of motherhood and thoughtfully challenges the societal notion that to live a life without children is to live a lesser life.'— Aminatta Forna A clarion call to recognise that parenting isn't the be-all and end-all of family life, Paula Knight's extraordinarily powerful graphic memoir is a beautifully drawn, funny and sometimes painful exploration of what it takes to be a woman, and a mother—or not. In 1970s Northeast England, best friends Polly and April are sitting up a tree, whispering about periods and swapping their hazy knowledge of the facts of life. They both expect to have families one day—it's the normal script to follow, isn't it? But, as Polly grows up, education and career become important too, and she believes that she can have it all. When, some years later, Polly settles with Jack, her career has taken off and she feels torn over whether or not to try for a baby. Has she left it too late? Did she have any control over that choice? They go ahead, but, after repeated miscarriage and chronic illness take their toll, Polly and Jack have to face a very tough decision. As Polly looks back to discover the origins of her own expectations, she has to confront what family means in a society where 'family' usually means 'children'.

Rooted in the precepts of ancient wisdom and informed by modern science this book provides a clear, practical guide to a life of contentment. In simple everyday language Facts of Life outlines the ten issues we all face and the means by which all human beings can accomplish happiness. In very useful and deceptively profound terms the book discusses the dilemma of human existence and the means to accomplish happiness in all circumstances. Drawing on a broad sample of resources from some of the oldest writings of the Tao tradition to some of the newest research on the brain and the role of vulnerability this book outlines everything anyone needs to do in order to live a life of contentment. The message of this book is that everyone can be happy. All that is required is the courage to do the work, and Facts of Life describes and explains the work that needs to be done. There is no mystery to the pursuit of happiness that requires supernatural contacts or magical revelation. The basic methods for achieving happiness are fully known and available for use by everyone. They are described in this book. The ten facts that are the focus of the book are, in reality, ten basic issues of human existence. Many of these issues have been recognized and written about for hundreds or even thousands of years. They are simple yet have a profound impact on our ability to be happy. What is clear is that the way each of us approaches these issues determines the extent to which we can be happy. "The beliefs, attitudes, assumptions and expectations with which we face the world determine the extent to which was will be able to cope with, endure and enjoy life." Knowing what these issues are, and how we incorporate beliefs about them into our daily life, can give us the power to control our happiness and to maintain a level of contentment no matter what life throws at us. After all, "What good is happiness if it abandons us at the first sign of adversity?" It turns out that it is

Ben stared at the TV. He had never seen anything like it. Fascinating. Incredible. Awful. He had to do something. There are some things Ben doesn't understand, so his dad is sent in to explain the facts of life. But it's the other facts that are worrying Ben and he decides to find his own answers. He's deadly serious – and the results are very, very funny. On a quest to understand the big issues in life and determined to make those around him listen, Ben navigates his way through the distractions and self-obsessions of those closest to him. This clever and emotional story tackles a relevant issue and will challenge kids thoughts and perspectives, while keeping them thoroughly entertained with its blend of humour and heart. Don't miss out on this insightful and unforgettable tale. ------------------ PRAISE FOR MORRIS GLEITZMAN ‘Readers can't get enough of him.’ The Independent ‘A brilliantly funny writer’ Sunday Telegraph ‘A virtuoso demonstration of how you can make comedy out of the most unlikely subject’ Sunday Times ‘He is one of the finest examples of a writer who can make humour stem from the things that really matter in life.’ The Guardian

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • In this lovely, easy-to-use illustrated guide to decluttering, the beloved author of The Happiness Project shows us how to take control of our stuff—and, by extension, our lives. Gretchen Rubin knows firsthand that creating order can make our lives happier, healthier, more productive, and more creative. But for most of us, a rigid, one-size-fits-all solution doesn't work. When we tailor our approach to suit our own particular challenges and habits, we can find inner calm. With a sense of fun, and a clear idea of what’s realistic for most people, Rubin suggests dozens of manageable tips and tricks for creating a more serene, orderly environment, including: • Never label anything “miscellaneous.” • Ask yourself, “Do I need more than one?” • Don’t aim for minimalism. • Remember: If you can’t retrieve it, you won’t use it. • Stay current with a child’s interests. • Beware the urge to “procrasticlear.” By getting rid of things we don’t use, don’t need, or don’t love, we free our minds (and our shelves) for what we truly value.

What do Gaby Lopez, Michael Robles, and Cynthia Rodriguez have in common? These three kids join other teens and tweens in Gary Soto's new short story collection, in which the hard-knock facts of growing up are captured with humor and poignance. Filled with annoying siblings, difficult parents, and first loves, these stories are a masterful reminder of why adolescence is one of the most frustrating and fascinating times of life.