The Wisdom of Walt by Jeffrey Barnes, a review
When a book promises the “Wisdom of Walt,” you expect pixie dust and a few cute quotes. Jeffrey Barnes delivers something far more substantial: a leadership guide built on the real creation of Disneyland, its setbacks, successes, and the lessons you can apply to your own life.
I didn’t know much about the book before I started reading it, except that it was sort of like a business coaching- or mentoring-type book. Once I delved between the covers, I realized it was more than just a business book and it focused on developing your own leadership style. The Wisdom of Walt also looked at how we, personally, resolve problems and issues, all based on Disneyland (and Walt Disney) history.
Yet, it was more than just a book about resolving issues with your business; Barnes would challenge you to think about your life and how you could make positive changes for yourself and for others.
Walt Disney and Leadership
Barnes ties all of his lessons into different aspects of Disneyland history, which Disney fans are going to love. He looks at Walt’s life and how he faced challenges and overcame them, all in relation to Disneyland; Barnes targets how you can apply the same ideas to your life . Each chapter focuses on a different aspect of Disneyland and using that information to make your own life better. The book is very inspirational. Within each section, Jeff will offer anecdotal and historical information that you can use to parallel with your own life.
He also offers several sections at the end of the chapter to help you work through different ideas. There are also prompts for brainstorming a game plan on changing your life. Barnes offers a roadmap on how to make your goals come to fruition.
The book is designed like most leadership books that you’ll find in the business section of the bookstore. This isn’t a bad thing and it makes the title incredibly accessible. Barnes’ style is very down-to-earth and very easy to relate to. His background in academics and teaching allow him to offer ideas and break them down in ways that are easy to understand and easy to use in your own life.
Who Should Read Jeffrey Barnes’ Book on Leadership?
If you love Disney history and want a fresh, practical way to think about leadership, limits, and personal growth, The Wisdom of Walt delivers on every level. Barnes blends inspiration with real-world application in a way that feels both motivating and achievable. If you are ready to look at your goals through a Disney lens, this is a book worth adding to your shelf. You can grab your copy today through my Amazon link and start applying the wisdom for yourself.