Living a Well-Lived Life: A Journey of Self-Discovery

Manfred Kets de Vries, a renowned psychoanalyst, executive coach, consultant, management educator, researcher, and writer, has found that the most common question he is asked is: How can I live a well-lived life? Over the years, he has realized the power of stories in tackling human dilemmas and providing answers to this question.

His latest book, “Living a Well-Lived Life,” is a reflection of his extensive experience in various fields. It is a unique blend of storytelling, self-reflection, and practical advice, making it an essential read for coaches, students, leaders, managers, educators, or anyone seeking a more reflective text to guide them through life’s challenges.

The book draws inspiration from a long literary tradition of unexpected encounters with wise others, such as “The Little Prince,” “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland,” “The Once and Future King,” and the “Harry Potter” series. It presents an extended Socratic dialogue between two versions of the author himself: a naive traveler lost in the Siberian wilderness and a reflective avatar who comes to his aid.

The avatar takes the form of a kabouter, a familiar figure in Dutch folklore that can be found in different cultures around the world and throughout centuries of storytelling. Through stories, riddles, and puzzles, the kabouter challenges the traveler to question and reflect upon his life and values, guiding him and readers toward the insights that will help them achieve a life well lived.

Published by Routledge, “Living a Well-Lived Life” is now available in its first edition, released on December 13, 2023. The book is written in English and consists of 202 pages. The ISBN-10 is 103259084X, and the ISBN-13 is 978-1032590844.

For those seeking a more reflective and engaging guide to navigating life’s challenges, “Living a Well-Lived Life” offers a unique approach to self-discovery and personal growth. With its blend of storytelling and practical advice, this book is sure to resonate with readers from all walks of life.