Brigadier General Bentley Nettles has served his country, his state and his local community as a decorated veteran, lawyer and public official. If there’s one lesson he’s learned time and time again, it’s that an organization’s success does not rest solely on the shoulders of its leaders.
“I think one of the things we’re missing in leadership nowadays is the idea that it’s not about you,” Nettles said. “It’s about the people you serve; the people who help you on your team. When you empower them to do something bigger than themselves, then you become a real leader.”
Leaders and their teams
Inspiring and empowering teams to work toward a common goal is at the core of the vision he shares in his new book, Creating Excellence: Insights Into Leadership, Life and Legacy. From battlefields to boardrooms, Nettles takes readers inside the “how” of creating transformation and growth, detailing the application of leadership principles in practice, rather than just introducing conceptual ideas.
Case in point: Nettles was tapped in 2017 to take over day-to-day operations at the Texas Alcohol and Beverage Commission after his predecessor stepped down amid a spending scandal. Readers witness firsthand how Nettles restructured the agency, uncovered new ways to collaborate and introduced innovative strategies with state-wide impact, including techniques to stop human trafficking that have since been adopted by at least 12 other states
And of course, Nettles’ 32 years in the U.S. Army have informed numerous, impactful lessons he shares. A chapter called “Tea with the Taliban” recalls the battlefields of Afghanistan, where Nettles shows readers how to negotiate (and win) inside hostile territory.
His track record in both the public and private sectors forms the backdrop of an inspiring and insightful message. Lastly, he maps out a three-step, 90-day plan with principles that can be applied in private industry, academic circles, politics and in all aspects of public service.
“Creating Excellence is not just a book,” Nettles added. “It is a powerful tool for transformation and growth. And the timing is ideal. The world needs strong and inspiring leaders now more than ever.”
