In 'In Over Our Heads,' Robert Kegan explores the complex nature of adult development in a rapidly changing world. He challenges the conventional understanding of growth, suggesting that many adults remain enmeshed in outdated ways of thinking. Kegan introduces a transformative model that reveals how we can elevate our minds to meet the complexities of modern life. Through thought-provoking insights and relatable examples, he illustrates the profound shift that occurs when we embrace a more evolved perspective. Will you dare to step beyond your limitations and discover what lies beyond the surfaces of your current understanding?
By Robert Kegan
Published: 1994
""The real challenge of adult development is not knowledge or skills; it's whether we can grow to understand ourselves and others more deeply, embracing the complexity of our relationships and the world around us.""
Surveying the disparate expert "literatures," which normally take no account of each other, Kegan brings them together to reveal, for the first time, what these many demands have in common. Our frequent frustration in trying to meet these complex and often conflicting claims results, he shows us, from a mismatch between the way we ordinarily know the world and the way we are unwittingly expected to understand it. In Over Our Heads provides us entirely fresh perspectives on a number of cultural controversies - the "abstinence vs. safe sex" debate, the diversity movement, communication across genders, the meaning of postmodernism. What emerges in these pages is a theory of evolving ways of knowing that allows us to view adult development much as we view child development, as an open-ended process born of the dynamic interaction of cultural demands and emerging mental capabilities.
Robert Kegan is a renowned developmental psychologist and author known for his groundbreaking work in adult development and learning. He is a professor at Harvard University and a co-founder of the Institute for Collaborative Education. Kegan's notable works include 'The Evolving Self', 'In Over Our Heads', and 'Immunity to Change', where he explores the complexities of human development and the challenges individuals face in navigating personal and professional growth. His writing style is characterized by clear, engaging prose that bridges academic research with practical applications, making his insights accessible to both professionals and lay readers.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "The Road Less Traveled," renowned psychiatrist M. Scott Peck combines spiritual wisdom with psychological insight to explore the nature of love, discipline, and personal growth. He challenges readers to confront the complexities of life, urging them to embrace pain and discomfort as pathways to deeper meaning and fulfillment. Through a unique blend of storytelling and practical advice, Peck reveals the transformative power of commitment and the significance of self-awareness in our relationships. As we navigate our own roads, he offers profound insights that provoke introspection and inspire change. Prepare to embark on a journey that invites you to redefine your understanding of love and self-discovery.
In 'Originals', Adam Grant explores the traits and habits of those who dare to challenge the status quo. He delves into the psychology behind innovation, revealing how creative thinkers cultivate ideas that can reshape industries. The book is packed with research-backed insights and compelling stories of nonconformists who made a difference. Grant's engaging narrative encourages readers to embrace their originality and take calculated risks. Will you be inspired to unleash your inner original and change the world?
In "Emotional Intelligence," Daniel Goleman unveils the crucial skills that go beyond IQ, fostering deeper connections and enhancing personal and professional success. He argues that emotional awareness and empathy can transform our interactions and decision-making, shaping a more fulfilling life. Through compelling anecdotes and groundbreaking research, Goleman reveals how mastering our emotions can lead to improved mental health and stronger relationships. Discover the surprising impact of emotional intelligence on leadership, teamwork, and everyday dilemmas. Are you ready to unlock the power within yourself and elevate your emotional mastery?
In "Raising a Secure Child," authors Kent Hoffman, Glen Cooper, and Bert Powell unlock the secrets to fostering emotional resilience in children. Drawing on the latest research in attachment theory, they reveal how parents can create a nurturing environment that promotes security and trust. With practical strategies and relatable anecdotes, the book guides you through the delicate balance of empathy and discipline. Discover the transformative power of a secure attachment and how it sets the foundation for lifelong emotional health. Are you ready to reshape your parenting approach and unlock your child's potential?
In "Growing Great Kids," expert parent educator and author, Dr. Laura Markham, unveils transformative strategies to foster emotional intelligence and resilience in children. Through relatable anecdotes and practical advice, readers discover the power of connection in parenting, creating stronger bonds and nurturing self-regulation. Dr. Markham challenges traditional discipline methods, advocating for empathy and understanding as the foundation for guiding young minds. This insightful guide promises to equip parents with the tools they need to raise confident, compassionate, and resilient children. Dive into this enlightening read and unlock the secrets to cultivating greatness in your kids!
In 'The Courage to Be Disliked', renowned philosopher Ichiro Kishimi and psychologist Fumitake Koga present a transformative dialogue between a young man and a wise philosopher. They explore the concept of Alfred Adler's psychology, emphasizing that happiness is a choice and freedom comes from the courage to be oneself. The profound insights challenge conventional beliefs about identity, relationships, and the burden of past traumas. As they delve into the meaning of true self-acceptance, the narrative invites readers to confront their own insecurities and societal expectations. This engaging exchange sparks curiosity and inspires a new outlook on personal growth and fulfillment.
In 'Breaking the Male Code,' Robert Garfield unravels the intricate web of societal expectations and emotional barriers that define modern masculinity. He presents a compelling exploration of how traditional male roles restrict emotional expression and hinder personal growth. Through insightful anecdotes and expert interviews, Garfield encourages men to challenge these norms and embrace vulnerability as a strength. This provocative guide offers practical strategies for redefining masculinity and fostering deeper connections with oneself and others. Join Garfield on a transformative journey that promises to reshape not only your understanding of masculinity but also the relationships you hold dear.
In '12 Rules for Life', psychologist Jordan B. Peterson distills life lessons from psychology, philosophy, and mythology into twelve profound principles for personal growth. Each rule invites readers to confront the chaos of existence and embrace responsibility, guiding them toward meaning and order. Peterson's compelling narratives and incisive insights challenge conventional wisdom, urging self-reflection and accountability. As readers navigate through the complexities of life, they discover how to build a stable foundation for themselves and their communities. This thought-provoking book promises to provoke deep contemplation and inspire transformative change.
Showing 8 of 24 similar books

Ina May Gaskin is a midwife and author renowned for her advocacy of natural childbirth. She is the founder of The Farm Midwifery Center in Tennessee and the author of Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth, which has inspired generations of women to embrace natural birth practices. Gaskin’s work focuses on empowering women with knowledge and confidence during childbirth, advocating for a holistic and less medicalized approach to labor and delivery. Her influence in the field of midwifery has been profound, helping to reshape modern perspectives on childbirth.

Alexis Ohanian is an American entrepreneur, investor, and co-founder of Reddit, one of the world’s most popular social news and discussion platforms. Ohanian is also a prominent advocate for open internet and net neutrality, and he has invested in numerous startups through his venture capital firm, Initialized Capital. In addition to his work in tech, Ohanian is involved in philanthropy, supporting causes related to women’s rights, education, and social justice. He is married to tennis star Serena Williams, and together they advocate for gender equality and inclusive leadership. Ohanian’s influence in the tech world and his commitment to social impact have made him a respected figure in both business and activism.

Jake Knapp is an author, designer, and creator of the Design Sprint process, a five-day method for solving complex problems and testing new ideas through prototyping. Knapp developed the Sprint process while working at Google Ventures, where it was used to help startups rapidly iterate and improve their products. He later co-authored the book Sprint, which has become a go-to resource for teams looking to streamline their creative processes and get better results in less time. Knapp's work focuses on productivity, creativity, and collaboration, with a particular emphasis on helping people do more meaningful work in shorter timeframes. His innovative approach to problem-solving has been adopted by companies worldwide, from small startups to large enterprises. In addition to his work on Sprints, Knapp is also a speaker and consultant, helping teams and organizations implement better practices for innovation and productivity. His work emphasizes the importance of focus, experimentation, and rapid feedback in driving success.

Shonda Rhimes is an American television producer, screenwriter, and author, best known for creating hit shows like Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal, and How to Get Away with Murder. As one of the most powerful women in Hollywood, Rhimes has redefined the television landscape with her diverse storytelling and strong female characters. She has built an empire under her production company, Shondaland, and signed a groundbreaking deal with Netflix to produce exclusive content. Rhimes is also an advocate for diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry, using her platform to push for greater representation on screen and behind the scenes.

Anya Taylor-Joy is an acclaimed actress known for her captivating performances in film and television. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Beth Harmon in the critically acclaimed Netflix series "The Queen's Gambit," which earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress. Taylor-Joy has also starred in notable films such as "The Witch," "Split," and "Emma," showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress. In addition to her acting career, she has been praised for her contributions to promoting diverse and complex female characters in modern storytelling. Her work continues to inspire audiences and set a high standard in the entertainment industry.

Julie Zhuo is a product design expert and author, best known for her work as the Vice President of Product Design at Facebook, where she played a key role in shaping the platform's user experience. Zhuo is also the author of the best-selling book The Making of a Manager, which offers insights into leadership and team management, especially for first-time managers. She is passionate about helping people navigate the complexities of leadership and product development. Since leaving Facebook, Zhuo has continued to focus on writing, advising, and mentoring leaders in the tech industry. Her expertise in design and management has made her a respected voice in Silicon Valley.

Alfred Lin is a venture capitalist and partner at Sequoia Capital, where he focuses on investments in consumer internet, enterprise, and mobile companies. Lin is known for his early investments in companies like Airbnb and DoorDash, helping them grow into major global brands. Before joining Sequoia, Lin was an executive at Zappos, where he worked closely with CEO Tony Hsieh to develop the company’s innovative culture and customer service model. Lin’s expertise in scaling businesses and his strategic vision have made him one of the most respected venture capitalists in Silicon Valley.

Michael Gervais is a high-performance psychologist who works with some of the world’s top athletes, business leaders, and artists to unlock their full potential. He is the co-founder of Compete to Create, a company that teaches individuals and teams how to perform at their best through mindset training and personal development strategies. Gervais is known for his work with the Seattle Seahawks, where he helped develop the mental toughness and resilience that led them to a Super Bowl win. His approach blends mindfulness, performance psychology, and the science of high achievement, which he shares through his podcast, Finding Mastery. Gervais' insights on mental performance have made him a sought-after speaker and consultant, helping people across various fields optimize their performance under pressure. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the relationship between the mind and body and believes that self-awareness and mental clarity are key to achieving greatness.
Showing 8 of 14 related collections
“"The real challenge of adult development is not knowledge or skills; it's whether we can grow to understand ourselves and others more deeply, embracing the complexity of our relationships and the world around us."”
In Over Our Heads
By Robert Kegan
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.