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The Habit of Excellence: Why British Army Leadership Works

Description:

The official British Army book on what makes its leadership so successful, and how to become a better leader yourself - whatever your field.
___________________


'If you want to become a better leader, read this book' Eddie Jones

'
An extraordinary read for any leader. Truly brilliant' General Stanley McChrystal, author of Team of Teams

'
Excellent. Offers proven tools and strategies' Matthew Syed
___________________

The Habit of Excellence is a unique insight into British Army leadership, explaining what makes it unique, what makes it so effective and what civilians can take from it to become better leaders themselves. Drawing on the latest research in military history, business, sociology, psychology and behavioural science, and with compelling illustration from British Army operations across the centuries, Lt Col Langley Sharp MBE goes beyond the latest leadership fads to distil into one peerlessly authoritative work the essence of leading and leadership from one of the world's most revered institutions.
___________________

'
Excellent. It's hard to see how any leader, whatever their field, wouldn't benefit from reading and rereading it' New Statesman

'
Offers lessons for all managers' Financial Times

'
Valuable in any walk of life' General Sir Mike Jackson, former Chief of the General Staff

'
Very readable. I could not recommend this exceptional book more' General The Lord David Richards, former Chief of the Defence Staff

'
Comprehensive and clearly written' Karin von Hippel, Director-General of RUSI

'
Terrific. Full of insights and lessons' General David Petraeus, former Director of the CIA


Review

An extraordinary read for any leader. Truly brilliant -- General Stanley McChrystal, author of Team of Teams

This book is so impactful. If you want to become a better leader, read this book -- Eddie Jones, Head Coach, England national rugby union team

Offers proven tools and strategies ... This excellent book challenges popular assumptions about British Army leadership, revealing what makes it the "gold standard" -- Matthew Syed, author of Rebel Ideas

Excellent. It's hard to see how any leader, whatever their field, wouldn't benefit from reading and rereading it -- Ed Smith ―
New Statesman

Offers lessons for all managers

Financial Times

Valuable in any walk of life -- General Sir Mike Jackson, former Chief of the General Staff

This very readable book uncovers the skills and qualities that have made Sandhurst a byword for effective leadership. I could not recommend this exceptional book more -- General The Lord David Richards, former Chief of the Defence Staff

Great leadership is fundamentally a question of character . . . This is a handbook for those aspiring to be great leaders everywhere -- Lord Mark Sedwill, former Cabinet Secretary and National Security Advisor

A
terrific book - one that is full of insights and lessons that will be of enormous value to leaders in all fields! -- General David Petraeus, former Director of the CIA

Lieutenant Colonel Langley Sharp's elaboration of the British Army's approach to leadership is comprehensive and clearly written, and provides valuable lessons for soldiers and civilians alike. As organisations grapple with the enormous changes underway - whether due to rapid technological advances or the changes in working practices brought about by the pandemic - understanding the basics of leadership will be essential if leaders and their organisations are to survive and thrive in our fast-paced environment

-- Karin von Hippel, Director-General, RUSI

About the Author

Lieutenant Colonel Langley Sharp MBE is head of the Centre for Army Leadership, part of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, and is responsible for championing leadership excellence across the British Army. Having himself graduated from Sandhurst two decades ago, his career in the Parachute Regiment has seen him deployed to Northern Ireland, Macedonia, Afghanistan and Iraq. Among his many varied roles, he has led a counter-insurgency Task Force operation, commanded a Parachute Regiment Battalion, and delivered the Ministry of Defence's training programme for the London 2012 Olympics, for which he was awarded an MBE. This is his first book.

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars As described and arrived on time

N.M. · 3 July 2023

Very interesting as an evolved view of military leadership - the servant leader rather than the heroic one. Would particularly recommend to any working in Education. The 3 pillars of modern army Leadership: 1.Values-based Leadership (within the values are Respect for Others and Acceptable Behaviour). 2. Mission Command - where decentralisation and subordinate initiative are to the fore. 3. Servant Leadership - 'if they don't care for their people, they can't ask them to do tough things.' All in all a very interesting read.

5.0 out of 5 stars Must Read for any leadership role

M.H. · 24 February 2023

I am not in the military but I do hold a leadership position in the emergency services. I found this book an excellent source of knowledge. I have taken numerous notes and will most certainly use the content to my advantage. It is an easy and enjoyable read that is full of extremely useful leadership guidance in any field.

4.0 out of 5 stars Excellent insight.

D. · 9 January 2022

Overall, this was a very enjoyable insightful read into the differing leadership styles needed to succeed at varying levels of the British Army. While those who have served will undoubtedly relate, the leader who works in the private or public sector will be able to take much from this book. The only reason it didn't get 5 stars was that it did get a bit repetitive towards the end, but a worthwhile read all the same.

5.0 out of 5 stars The best book I read in 2021

M. · 20 February 2022

This is honestly a must lead for all leaders at any level - it will make you a better person

5.0 out of 5 stars Brilliant

J.&.N.M. · 10 December 2021

Set aside any prejudice you may have about the Army because this book is an excellent study of the essentials of leadership. I’ve bought multiple copies for colleagues.

5.0 out of 5 stars Gives a good overview of how ‘mission command’ works for any leader

C.E. · 19 November 2021

Being ex military, this book enlightened me on the valuable relationship between officer leaders and soldier leaders - something I hadn’t considered before. Easily translatable to any workplace.

4.0 out of 5 stars A very good read

A. · 23 December 2022

Lots of great examples in this book making it suitable for military and non-military readers. The insights are useful in any walk of life.

5.0 out of 5 stars What an enlightening book. So well written.

N.G. · 14 November 2021

Great insight into leadership, and the empowerment of younger team members. A great read

It fits the requirement of purchase

A.K. · 10 June 2024

One of the best books on leadership I have read.

A true book about leadership - one of the best!

K. · 11 March 2023

One of the best books about leadership. Valuable in any walk of life, from business to military and even private level.

Okay read

L.G.(.K.S.F.W.A.C. · 4 April 2024

Just about Okay.

Book Review

a. · 19 August 2025

One of the finest books on leadership that I have read. My father was in the Military in the US and he always use to tell me the principles of leadership in the Military can be used in business and non profit worlds. Having been in Church ministry for the past ten years, I have utilized a lot of what I have read and learned from the Centre for Army Leadership podcasts and readings. Highly recommend reading this book

Excellent book for new managers

B.D. · 11 June 2024

This book is an excellent read for newly minted managers, like me! Servant leadership is the best way to lead people.

The Habit of Excellence: Why British Army Leadership Works

Product ID: K0241992184
Condition: New

4.5

AED8420

Price includes VAT & Import Duties
Type: Paperback
Availability: In Stock

Quantity:

|

Order today to get by 7-14 business days

Delivery fee of AED 20. Free for orders above AED 200.

Returns & Warranty policies

Imported From: United Kingdom

At BOLO, we work hard to ensure the products you receive are new, genuine, and sourced from reputable suppliers.

BOLO is not an authorized or official retailer for most brands, nor are we affiliated with manufacturers unless specifically stated on a product page. Instead, we source verified sellers, authorized distributors or directly from the manufacturer.

Each product undergoes thorough inspection and verification at our consolidation and fulfilment centers to ensure it meets our strict authenticity and quality standards before being shipped and delivered to you.

If you ever have concerns regarding the authenticity of a product purchased from us, please contact Bolo Support. We will review your inquiry promptly and, if necessary, provide documentation verifying authenticity or offer a suitable resolution.

Your trust is our top priority, and we are committed to maintaining transparency and integrity in every transaction.

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While we strive to display accurate information, variations in packaging, labeling, instructions, or formulation may occasionally occur due to regional differences or supplier updates. For detailed or manufacturer-specific information, please contact the brand directly or reach out to BOLO Support for assistance.

Unless otherwise stated, all prices displayed on the product page include applicable taxes and import duties.

BOLO operates in accordance with the laws and regulations of United Arab Emirates. Any items found to be restricted or prohibited for sale within the UAE will be cancelled prior to shipment. We take proactive measures to ensure that only products permitted for sale in United Arab Emirates are listed on our website.

All items are shipped by air, and any products classified as “Dangerous Goods (DG)” under IATA regulations will be removed from the order and cancelled.

All orders are processed manually, and we make every effort to process them promptly once confirmed. Products cancelled due to the above reasons will be permanently removed from listings across the website.

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The Habit of Excellence: Why British Army Leadership Works

Product ID: K0241992184
Condition: New

4.5

The Habit of Excellence: Why British Army Leadership Works-0
Type: Paperback

AED8420

Price includes VAT & Import Duties
Availability: In Stock

Quantity:

|

Order today to get by 7-14 business days

Delivery fee of AED 20. Free for orders above AED 200.

Returns & Warranty policies

Imported From: United Kingdom

At BOLO, we work hard to ensure the products you receive are new, genuine, and sourced from reputable suppliers.

BOLO is not an authorized or official retailer for most brands, nor are we affiliated with manufacturers unless specifically stated on a product page. Instead, we source verified sellers, authorized distributors or directly from the manufacturer.

Each product undergoes thorough inspection and verification at our consolidation and fulfilment centers to ensure it meets our strict authenticity and quality standards before being shipped and delivered to you.

If you ever have concerns regarding the authenticity of a product purchased from us, please contact Bolo Support. We will review your inquiry promptly and, if necessary, provide documentation verifying authenticity or offer a suitable resolution.

Your trust is our top priority, and we are committed to maintaining transparency and integrity in every transaction.

All product information, images, descriptions, and reviews originate from the manufacturer or from trusted sellers overseas. BOLO is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or an authorized retailer for most brands listed on our website unless stated otherwise.

While we strive to display accurate information, variations in packaging, labeling, instructions, or formulation may occasionally occur due to regional differences or supplier updates. For detailed or manufacturer-specific information, please contact the brand directly or reach out to BOLO Support for assistance.

Unless otherwise stated, all prices displayed on the product page include applicable taxes and import duties.

BOLO operates in accordance with the laws and regulations of United Arab Emirates. Any items found to be restricted or prohibited for sale within the UAE will be cancelled prior to shipment. We take proactive measures to ensure that only products permitted for sale in United Arab Emirates are listed on our website.

All items are shipped by air, and any products classified as “Dangerous Goods (DG)” under IATA regulations will be removed from the order and cancelled.

All orders are processed manually, and we make every effort to process them promptly once confirmed. Products cancelled due to the above reasons will be permanently removed from listings across the website.

Description:

The official British Army book on what makes its leadership so successful, and how to become a better leader yourself - whatever your field.
___________________


'If you want to become a better leader, read this book' Eddie Jones

'
An extraordinary read for any leader. Truly brilliant' General Stanley McChrystal, author of Team of Teams

'
Excellent. Offers proven tools and strategies' Matthew Syed
___________________

The Habit of Excellence is a unique insight into British Army leadership, explaining what makes it unique, what makes it so effective and what civilians can take from it to become better leaders themselves. Drawing on the latest research in military history, business, sociology, psychology and behavioural science, and with compelling illustration from British Army operations across the centuries, Lt Col Langley Sharp MBE goes beyond the latest leadership fads to distil into one peerlessly authoritative work the essence of leading and leadership from one of the world's most revered institutions.
___________________

'
Excellent. It's hard to see how any leader, whatever their field, wouldn't benefit from reading and rereading it' New Statesman

'
Offers lessons for all managers' Financial Times

'
Valuable in any walk of life' General Sir Mike Jackson, former Chief of the General Staff

'
Very readable. I could not recommend this exceptional book more' General The Lord David Richards, former Chief of the Defence Staff

'
Comprehensive and clearly written' Karin von Hippel, Director-General of RUSI

'
Terrific. Full of insights and lessons' General David Petraeus, former Director of the CIA


Review

An extraordinary read for any leader. Truly brilliant -- General Stanley McChrystal, author of Team of Teams

This book is so impactful. If you want to become a better leader, read this book -- Eddie Jones, Head Coach, England national rugby union team

Offers proven tools and strategies ... This excellent book challenges popular assumptions about British Army leadership, revealing what makes it the "gold standard" -- Matthew Syed, author of Rebel Ideas

Excellent. It's hard to see how any leader, whatever their field, wouldn't benefit from reading and rereading it -- Ed Smith ―
New Statesman

Offers lessons for all managers

Financial Times

Valuable in any walk of life -- General Sir Mike Jackson, former Chief of the General Staff

This very readable book uncovers the skills and qualities that have made Sandhurst a byword for effective leadership. I could not recommend this exceptional book more -- General The Lord David Richards, former Chief of the Defence Staff

Great leadership is fundamentally a question of character . . . This is a handbook for those aspiring to be great leaders everywhere -- Lord Mark Sedwill, former Cabinet Secretary and National Security Advisor

A
terrific book - one that is full of insights and lessons that will be of enormous value to leaders in all fields! -- General David Petraeus, former Director of the CIA

Lieutenant Colonel Langley Sharp's elaboration of the British Army's approach to leadership is comprehensive and clearly written, and provides valuable lessons for soldiers and civilians alike. As organisations grapple with the enormous changes underway - whether due to rapid technological advances or the changes in working practices brought about by the pandemic - understanding the basics of leadership will be essential if leaders and their organisations are to survive and thrive in our fast-paced environment

-- Karin von Hippel, Director-General, RUSI

About the Author

Lieutenant Colonel Langley Sharp MBE is head of the Centre for Army Leadership, part of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, and is responsible for championing leadership excellence across the British Army. Having himself graduated from Sandhurst two decades ago, his career in the Parachute Regiment has seen him deployed to Northern Ireland, Macedonia, Afghanistan and Iraq. Among his many varied roles, he has led a counter-insurgency Task Force operation, commanded a Parachute Regiment Battalion, and delivered the Ministry of Defence's training programme for the London 2012 Olympics, for which he was awarded an MBE. This is his first book.

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars As described and arrived on time

N.M. · 3 July 2023

Very interesting as an evolved view of military leadership - the servant leader rather than the heroic one. Would particularly recommend to any working in Education. The 3 pillars of modern army Leadership: 1.Values-based Leadership (within the values are Respect for Others and Acceptable Behaviour). 2. Mission Command - where decentralisation and subordinate initiative are to the fore. 3. Servant Leadership - 'if they don't care for their people, they can't ask them to do tough things.' All in all a very interesting read.

5.0 out of 5 stars Must Read for any leadership role

M.H. · 24 February 2023

I am not in the military but I do hold a leadership position in the emergency services. I found this book an excellent source of knowledge. I have taken numerous notes and will most certainly use the content to my advantage. It is an easy and enjoyable read that is full of extremely useful leadership guidance in any field.

4.0 out of 5 stars Excellent insight.

D. · 9 January 2022

Overall, this was a very enjoyable insightful read into the differing leadership styles needed to succeed at varying levels of the British Army. While those who have served will undoubtedly relate, the leader who works in the private or public sector will be able to take much from this book. The only reason it didn't get 5 stars was that it did get a bit repetitive towards the end, but a worthwhile read all the same.

5.0 out of 5 stars The best book I read in 2021

M. · 20 February 2022

This is honestly a must lead for all leaders at any level - it will make you a better person

5.0 out of 5 stars Brilliant

J.&.N.M. · 10 December 2021

Set aside any prejudice you may have about the Army because this book is an excellent study of the essentials of leadership. I’ve bought multiple copies for colleagues.

5.0 out of 5 stars Gives a good overview of how ‘mission command’ works for any leader

C.E. · 19 November 2021

Being ex military, this book enlightened me on the valuable relationship between officer leaders and soldier leaders - something I hadn’t considered before. Easily translatable to any workplace.

4.0 out of 5 stars A very good read

A. · 23 December 2022

Lots of great examples in this book making it suitable for military and non-military readers. The insights are useful in any walk of life.

5.0 out of 5 stars What an enlightening book. So well written.

N.G. · 14 November 2021

Great insight into leadership, and the empowerment of younger team members. A great read

It fits the requirement of purchase

A.K. · 10 June 2024

One of the best books on leadership I have read.

A true book about leadership - one of the best!

K. · 11 March 2023

One of the best books about leadership. Valuable in any walk of life, from business to military and even private level.

Okay read

L.G.(.K.S.F.W.A.C. · 4 April 2024

Just about Okay.

Book Review

a. · 19 August 2025

One of the finest books on leadership that I have read. My father was in the Military in the US and he always use to tell me the principles of leadership in the Military can be used in business and non profit worlds. Having been in Church ministry for the past ten years, I have utilized a lot of what I have read and learned from the Centre for Army Leadership podcasts and readings. Highly recommend reading this book

Excellent book for new managers

B.D. · 11 June 2024

This book is an excellent read for newly minted managers, like me! Servant leadership is the best way to lead people.

Similar suggestions by Bolo

More from this brand

Similar items from “Leadership”