This accessible memoir by Ted Hall is a curated collection of entertaining, informative and inspiring stories which illustrates how fundamental values are passed on to others through lived example. Ted candidly describes through his personal stories how aspiring to excellence in one's chosen activities can lead to enduring contributions – especially when grounded by moral and scientific first principles, pursued with passion and persistence, and undertaken in collaboration with others.
He shares how his remarkable life of achievement was guided by "Tell the Truth and Do the Right Thing; And Go to the Funeral." The seemingly simple phrase is highly empowering because each individual is free to "do the right thing" as understood in the moment.
In any organization (or family), the phrase encourages personal responsibility and independent action by allowing employees (or family members), from the lowest to the highest, to confidently do the right thing (as they perceive it in the circumstance). There are no explicit rules to abide, or policies to consider. There are no higher tests. The requirement is to be truthful and do the right thing.
"And go to the funeral" at first seems like a non sequitur. Yet, this part of the admonition communicates the importance of compassion and putting one's plans aside to attend to others' needs at their darkest times.
Learn how "rules don't work" as a leadership model; how to apply "the five rules of life" as a framework for child rearing; how investing simultaneously over three distinct time horizons is essential to professional development; why sailing across the Pacific provides critical lessons for teamwork under stress; how to confront devastating events including fire, death of a child, and a disabling auto accident; and many other compelling lessons drawn from his lived experience.
The lessons are shared through "The Stories," which include more than 125 stories and anecdotes. These frank and candid essays bring notable events (big and small) to life, providing the context, describing the important roles of other players, and illustrating his reactions and responses to challenging circumstances.
Some stories will amuse you; some will inspire you; and some will make you cry.
The stories, essays and anecdotes are grouped into ten somewhat parallel topic areas, intended as short standalone pieces. A reader may sample the stories casually with the assurance that they do not need to be read chronologically to have meaning. A reader can jump in and out of a topic at one's convenience by reading just one essay at a time, which makes the book readily accessible to all.
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Selected Reviews
"Tell the Truth and Do the Right Thing is like no autobiography – no book – I have ever read. Like its author, Ted Hall, it is sui generis. In our age of irony and self-absorption, Ted has pursued excellence with self-discipline, focus, humor and faith." –
William F. Meehan III
Lecturer, Author & Columnist
"We hear a lot about privilege in this country today, and it is true that Ted Hall was born into a stable, loving family. He was supported as a young person in his participation in athletic, scouting and music programs, and he took full advantage of quality public education. However, that situation describes millions of kids in the baby boom generation. What was it that allowed Ted to string together this remarkable record of achievements? You must read the story to get the message. When you do, there is a path for every young person inspired to make a difference." –
Leslie G. Denend
Colonel, USAF (ret.)
Multi-time CEO & Director, Silicon Valley
"Throughout his career, Ted has been guided by "Tell the truth and do the right thing; and go to the funeral." This singular phrase led to his remarkable breadth of achievement. The facts about Ted's success will surprise you. And the many stories chronicled in this book will entertain you, and at the same time inspire you to bring essential values to bear in your own life, and to the lives of others." –
Don C. Watters
Senior Partner Emeritus, McKinsey & Company
Community leader