Lt Gen (Ret) Rick Lynch - Adapt or Die: Leadership Principles from an American General

2013 by Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Rick Lynch

Published by Baker Books

a division of Baker Publishing Group

P.O. Box 6287, Grand Rapids, MI 49516-6287

www.bakerbooks.com

Ebook edition created 2013

Ebook corrections 10.05.2015

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any meansfor example, electronic, photocopy, recordingwithout the prior written permission of the publisher. The only exception is brief quotations in printed reviews.

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data is on file at the Library of Congress, Washington, DC.

ISBN 978-1-4412-4465-9

Scripture quotations are from the Holy Bible, New International Version. NIV. Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com

Author is represented by Alive Communications, Inc.

Change, adapt, and find new opportunities. That is how Rick Lynch commanded in Iraq during the surge. But it could be any of us leaders anywhere: We all have to adapt. This is a superb book on leadership written by a thoughtful, courageous, and authentic leader himself. As wise, practical, and inspiring as any I have ever seen.

Gen. (Ret.) Fred M. Franks, U.S. Army

General Lynchs book Adapt or Die is a wonderful reflection of the importance of truly caring for people in a very emotional and deeply connected way. I have worked with Rick in helping take care of our soldiers and their families during these difficult times, and the leadership principles listed in this book are an invaluable guide on how to accomplish that goal. Those principles apply not only in the military, but also in corporate America, in academia, and even in the entertainment industry.

Gary Sinise, actor and founder of the Gary Sinise Foundation

General Lynch is a great American hero. Hes led our troops in battle and hes managed the bases for thousands of military families around the world. Hes got insights into leadership and taking care of people that are great lessons for leaders of any organization. He makes a compelling case for leaders to constantly improve and adapt their organizations; its really all about people. Lynchs mantra of touching lives and making a difference should speak to leaders of all types of organizations. A must-read for any student of leaders.

Craig Boyan, president and COO, H-E-B

Three Cheers for Adapt or Die ! General Lynch shows us that leadership is not just a matter of the head, but of the heart; not just an acquired skill, but a gift bestowed. With accuracy, detail, and precision, Ricky Lynch hands his reader a magnifying glass, allowing us to peer upon the essential qualities of a caring, effective, passionate, and successful leader.

Rev. Dr. Russell J. Levenson Jr., Rector, St. Martins Episcopal Church, Houston, Texas

This book deserves a place on the shelf of contemporary leadership tomes. A personal tour through an exciting life as a soldier, it will provoke an interesting self-analysis in those who have led or want to lead.

Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Walter F. Ulmer Jr., U.S. Army; former president and CEO, Center for Creative Leadership

Adapt or Die is an inspiring story of the lessons learned about faith, life, and leadership from one of Americas great soldiers. General Lynchs enduring principles and practical insights will help people from all walks of life turn work and family obstacles into opportunities for success.

Chet Edwards, former U.S. Congressman, Texas 17 th District, 19912010

General Lynch offers a rare and powerful perspective on leadership. Not only is he is a proven leader through his experiences as a U.S. Army general, but he is a natural leader from his innate understanding of and care for people.

Jorgen Pedersen, president and CEO, RE2, Inc.

Rick personifies what leadership is all about. He has a way of communicating how to lead through strength, compassion, and most of all integrity! No matter if you lead a corporation, a small business, a nonprofit, or an academic institution, Ricks principles will guide you to success.

Doug Harward, CEO and founder, TrainingIndustry.com

Hard-hitting, straightforward Rick Lynch captures a lifetime of lessons learned from a very distinguished military careerinvaluable for corporate and military leaders alike.

Gen. (Ret.) Ben Griffin, U.S. Army

With boldness and candor, Rick Lynch relates his own experiences from a distinguished U.S. Army career to illustrate essential leadership principles for all of us. General Lynch is an authentic American hero, yet he writes with a common touch. He demonstrates a deep understanding of how to be a leader and to live a full, balanced life.

James D. Spaniolo, president, University of Texas at Arlington

Leadership is what we desperately need, yet its not an innate trait. Fortunately, it can be learned, and we have Lt. Gen. Rick Lynch to teach us. From the heartland of America to the distant ramparts of Iraq, Lynch knows the importance of leadership and wants to share his gift with others. This book is more than the fascinating journey of an accomplished American patriot. It is a guide for all of us on how to lead and how to live.

Dr. J. D. Crouch II, former assistant to the president and deputy national security advisor

I personally have experienced the wonderful impact of Rick and these stories. He will touch all of your emotions. Most important, you will leave feeling more prepared and motivated to lead yourself, your team, and your organization.

Al Triunfo, vice president, sales and operations, MEDA Pharmaceuticals

Adapt or Die is an invaluable addition to a leadership library and can truly help people who strive to be leaders in the godly way. General Lynch shows us how he leaned on God throughout his career, especially in difficult circumstances, and how that relationship was a source of strength for him. I wish I could have read this book forty years ago.

Dan Wallrath, president/founder, Operation Finally Home

This book deserves a look as an example of how one aggressive general officer sees his profession, himself, and his responsibilities. It is a candid, straightforward review of the challenge and response of a military leader in todays complex environment.

Brig. Gen. (Ret.) John C. (Doc) Bahnsen, U.S. Army

General Lynch gives pragmatic examples of how investing in and trusting your employees can and does lead to significant productivity and morale changes. Adapt or Die is a must-read for anyone who has been blessed with people responsibility or for those who aspire to lead effectively.

Bob Jansen, president and CEO, Zensights

Managers, pastors, military leaders, educators, and anyone seeking to lead well will find great help in the pages of this book. General Lynch has earned the right to be heard, and listening to his instruction and stories will lock fresh new leadership lessons in your heart.

Rev. Kevin G. Harney, pastor, leadership trainer, and author of Reckless Faith and The Organic Outreach Series

An inspiring book by one of our nations premier strategic and spiritual leaders. Having achieved success as a military professional at every level of the armys organizational structure, General Rick Lynchs valuable and practical leadership principles captured in this volume should be required reading for any organizations entire management teamno matter the position or level. Quite simply, this might be one of the most positive, candid, and encouraging books Ive read on leadership in recent years! Truly an invaluable resource for those wanting to take their effectiveness as a great, adaptive leader to the next level.