The Power of Positive Deviance: How Unlikely Innovators Solve the World's Toughest Problems by Richard Pascale, Jerry Sternin, Monique Sternin

The Power of Positive Deviance: How Unlikely Innovators Solve the World's Toughest Problems is a thought-provoking book by leadership and organizational development scholar and consultant, Richard Pascale. He argues that innovative solutions are often hidden within the culture of organizations and communities. Drawing from real-world examples of oddball success stories, he explains why traditional approaches to problem solving often fail and how 'positive deviance'–the practice of taking an unpopular stance, often in defiance of conventional wisdom–can be highly effective.

The book begins by looking at various ways in which successful individuals have challenged the status quo in the face of insurmountable odds and achieved extraordinary results. Such examples range from business visionary Akio Morita and philanthropy advocate Mohammad Yunus to Mother Teresa and AIDS activist Dr. Mathilde Krim. By discussing innovative, creative thought processes that enabled these individuals to make game-changing breakthroughs, Pascale presents a compelling case for why positive deviance works. He makes the important point that, contrary to popular belief, differences do not necessarily signal inferiority–rather, they can unlock powerful potentials for change.

Pascale then moves on to discuss how organizations can leverage positive deviance to achieve the same sort of remarkable successes. He offers several practical tips and techniques, such as developing an environment of organizational learning, and embracing a culture of risk-taking and experimentation. He also outlines the various steps of a successful positive deviance implementation plan, including identifying and understanding an organization's big-picture goals, and recruiting and training internal champions who can take on the role of driving positive deviance initiatives forward.

Finally, Pascale examines how humanitarian organizations and charities can benefit from positive deviance. He offers strategies for identifying and addressing community issues, creating and sustaining a social change movement, and increasing the reach and impact of their efforts. As the author explains, by listening to stories of underdogs and outliers, and applying their unique perspectives to problem solving, organizations can tap into a powerful path of innovation and ingenuity to solve seemingly intractable issues.

Overall, The Power of Positive Deviance provides an important insight into how organizations and individuals can break free from entrenched practices and attempt something new and daring to find lasting, meaningful solutions. The book offers an abundance of thoughtful advice and inspiring examples to help readers understand the power of taking a chance on the unlikeliest of ideas, and develop the courage to pursue them. It is an essential read for anyone interested in challenging their current assumptions, seeking out new opportunities, and finding creative ways to solve the world's toughest problems.