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‘On Practice’ is the late Peter Vaill’s last manuscript that we bring to you with framing and context from Prof. Vaill’s long-time friend and thought-partner David Fearon. ‘Practice’ invites you to explore your own concept of why your practice matters, and our collective Practice in the things we do best.
Purchase your copy here.
Read the Reviews here.
→ Have a listen here to David talking about the book to Scott J. Allen on the Phronesis Podcast: Practical Wisdom for Leaders.
Hear Peter and Dave On Practice in the PRACTICE? podcast in their words:
enactionresearch.info.podcast (Check out episodes 1-22 with Peter!)
Vaill’s life work ended with him calling practice a “biggie,” which he related to dark matter. Dark matter comprises 85% of the matter of the universe but it cannot be detected with existing instrumentation. Dark matter prevents galaxies from flying apart and has a strong influence on the structure and ongoing unfolding of the universe. Vaill provocatively asserted that “practice is the dark matter and energy of social science. Practice is everywhere.” Vaill was light years ahead of his time in the content of this amazing book. —Eric Dent, Consultant, Executive Coach, and Uncommon Friends Endowed Chair Professor of Ethics
In an old movie, I recall a scene where AI created an original score music based upon the mood of those in the room. My first reaction as an author was, “lucky R2D2 - they don’t suffer the pain of looking at a blank page.” The authors of ON PRACTICE, via their aggregated 100+ years of experience and scholarship have created a must read treatise on Practice. Moreover, like R2, their organic template allows for real time upgrading. Kudos to David and Peter for most importantly the content and their innovative approach to ongoing assurance of relevance. —Tom Casey, author of 5 best selling books on Leadership, most recently “Leadership Effectiveness - The Next Curve To Flatten!”
This book will change the way you think about practice and what it means to be a practitioner, whatever your professional interests and personal pursuits. Essential reading for practice developers and anyone curious about their practices and self-development. —Don Dunoon, author, facilitator, diagnostician and change agent
The Ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus is credited as stating “you can’t step into the same river twice.” This is an invitation to you, to step into the cool pool of contemplation that is ON PRACTICE. Enriching both personally and professionally, the lived insight and experiences of both authors encourage discernment as participant. As we focus on the becoming that is this life, Drs. Vaill and Fearon Sr. offer an opportunity to delve further with each opening of the book offering that opportunity for reflection. Both scholarly and applied, your practice will benefit. —Linda Ferraro, Valency Consulting
Vaill and Fearon’s thought-provoking manuscript will cause you to stop and think about the practices you maintain in your own life. You’ll quickly learn we all have them, whether that’s in our professional or personal lives. As a practitioner, you’ll find the manuscript relatable and reaffirming through the lens of Practice. Peter and David share perspectives and anecdotes throughout the text that demonstrate even the most seasoned practitioners must continuously learn, improve, adapt, and navigate change. You'll gain greater awareness of your own practice and why it matters to you – a practice that is uniquely yours. I enjoyed pondering what gets me up in the morning and why I practice the way I do. I know you will too. —Natalia Barczyszyn
“It was an incredible gift and honor to work on this book with David and get to meet the late great Peter Vaill through his writings ON PRACTICE. There are so many nuggets here of wisdom - life lessons really, that have certainly affected my practice. We invite you to inquire alongside Peter and David - why YOUR practice matters!” —C. Theodor Forde-Stiegler, editor