Life's Non Conformities: An Auditor's Tale of Practical Application of Social, Emotional & Behavioral Strategies

From taming the ego to the art of giving advice, Life's Non-Conformities: An Auditor's Tale is an engaging collection of lessons demonstrating the practical application of social, emotional, and behavioral theories as told through the eyes of an internationally certified auditor. It is the stories and new perspectives that drive this book and set it apart. As an informal conversation, the author begins by sharing his own vulnerabilities and the growth that he has experienced along the way. The author gives readers a front row seat to life behind an auditing curtain and introduce them to real-life people he has worked with. Each chapter contains examples of theory in action and a bite-size summary of key points.
The theoretical framework is graced with the comfort of familiarity, but the practice of this framework does not. The author provides a fresh perspective on Myers-Briggs Type Indicators, the Ego, and the quintessential way to charm and disarm the people you interact with. He teaches the readers how nurturing their inner awareness of their own personality traits as well as their surroundings can develop fruitful personal and professional relationships.

This book is for both individuals at the very start of their professional career as well as individuals who are ready to break into managerial roles and the world of middle management. It provides an experiential and informal guide to tackle everyday challenges and difficult situations. This book is written to inspire learning, increase awareness of self and others and journey through life with a hopeful mind and a peaceful heart.

The book begins with a brief introduction of who the author is and why he has written this book. As an auditor who has seen a lot of things, he feels it is now time to share them. He asks readers to venture through this book with an open mind and an open heart, recognizing that everyone has something to offer. He talks about how there are many different lenses we use to see the world and illustrate a few time he has looked through a misguided or cloudy lens (and an occasion where someone looked through a cloudy lens at me). He then challenges readers to determine who is right in an interesting story about three friends and a harrowing situation.

To truly develop awareness of others, it is important to understand the influencers that shape one's personality. This book provides a breakdown of three factors that influence our behaviors: personality traits we are born with, cultural values and upbringing and emotional management. Using my own stories to illustrate the different elements of Myers Briggs Type Indicators and the Hofstede Cultural Dimensions Theory, readers gain a greater understanding of these factors and the influence they have on their own.

The book explains the 'Ego', how it is triggered by many things including body language, tone of voice or misinterpreted social signs. More importantly teaches how to become aware of our triggers and just let go, we can find peace.

With a greater understanding of personality types, the ego, ego triggers, actuality and reality, the book provides an inquisitive toolkit on the best questions to ask and the right ways to listen. Emotional intelligence is another the author relies on to inform his own awareness of others.

The book then explains the 'Baddeley and James Political Skills Model' as a tool for identifying behaviors related to integrity and political awareness. Using popular culture references from movies and shows, the author illustrates the four quadrants in a meaningful light. Readers will learn about the sheep, donkey, fox and owl types and what each respective one means. When we understand the dynamic of these behaviors, they become easier to spot.

Finally, the author gives summary and aims to inspire readers to continue their learning and growing journey. It ends on a hopeful note, encouraging readers to live imperfect lives full of awareness and purpose.