ABWA–Authoring by Walking Around

Over three decades ago, Tom Peters and Robert Waterman, used the term “Management by Walking Around” in their classic The Search for Excellence.

They also invented the concept of “Authoring by Flying Around” as they scoured the globe for “smart people who are doing cool stuff from which you can learn the most useful, cutting-edge principles”. Working for McKinsey gave them access to top executives in most companies – not to mention a generous travel budget

Their style has certainly influenced my writing. I like to use examples from many industries and many countries in my books. But the term “walking around” has been even more influential. I have walked the souks and side streets of over 50 countries. Since I got a FitBit a little over 2 years ago, it tells me I have walked 8 million steps. Most have been with the two neighbor dogs I try to keep up with, but I have been fascinated with writing while walking, and technology is increasingly allowing me to.

I conduct most of my interviews via Vonage, and record them on my Zoom digital recorder. The SD Card helps populate my Google Drive, and a copy of the files goes to Rev.com to transcribe. Freed of the need to take notes during the interview, I pace about.

I am starting to use the microphone on the keyboard of the iPhone and my Nexus to dictate early drafts of chapters on my walks.

I am looking at a standing desk to reduce sitting time even further. I  read somewhere “sitting is the new smoking” and that really hit home.

Most of my research is still sedentary but I can see Alexa or Siri or Cortana gradually becoming part of my team and allowing me to fact check and find interesting nuggets while I am pacing or driving.

One seat I would gladly give up is the uncomfortable one on the many flights I do each year. That’s mostly keyboard time – and usually awkward. I cannot wait for brain machine interfaces to evolve where I could dictate or edit some more text hands free.

Authoring by Walking Around – the search for that excellence continues.