Alan Downs in his inspiring book on “Seven Miracles of Management” has made a sincere attempt to undo wrong education. Many of us have been wrongly taught, to hide our human feelings, consider everyone else our competitor, and struggle to get a larger share of limited resources, in order to be “good at work”.

In this book he takes us through his own as well as others’ experiences towards the journey back to personal integrity and enhancement. In the process, they realised the power of their own humanity. In their businesses, they employed their full being, attempting to be honest, loving, forgiving, creative and supportive. Their success transcended the limited, small-minded power struggle. Such success is what is often called effortless accomplishment.

Alan Downs asserts that, at the core of a successful change in an organisation, at least one of the following miracles happen: Manifestation, Reciprocity, Honesty, Forgiveness, Passion, Esteem, and Transcending the past. In other words, by challenging ourselves, brushing aside the faults of others, making a change for the better, one can make miracles happen. He has depicted each of them in a separate chapter, and also has suggested the possible ways of practicing and asserting them.

Alan Downs concludes his book with a chapter on Becoming. He refers to the “Butterfly Effect” ie. the smallest event can set in motion dramatic consequences. When even the lowest level employee begins to practice the seven miracles, it can have dramatic effects throughout the organisation.

“ Ground zero for positive organizational change is inside you and me. As we come to know the fullness of our being, acknowledging and honouring our humanity, we also change our attitudes and behaviour toward others. As managers, when we change, we treat our employees differently, changing their environment and ultimately changing them. This is lasting organizational change. This is miraculous power. It is your power”.

The book is strongly recommended as it is addressed to all human beings though the word manager appears very often. In short the book gives a lucid road map for a way of life.