Lessons on Living — Reflections from Nigel Latta’s New Book
Over the long weekend, I read Nigel Latta’s new book Lessons on Living: Finding Your Way Through Life’s Ups and Downs. It’s not a business book as such — but it could be.
Nigel writes with the honesty of someone who’s been told his time is limited. He distils decades of experience as a clinical psychologist, a lifetime of observing human behaviour, and a deeply personal health journey into one clear message: life is uncertain —how we respond is everything.
He explores the moments that shake us: the loss of health, the pressures of work, the tough conversations, and the curveballs we never saw coming.
His point isn’t to “think positive,” but to stay conscious in how we act — to drive our own bus, rather than letting outside forces take the wheel.
His three principles for a good life are spot on. I won’t spoil the discovery — pick up the book and see what resonates for you.
For me, these principles connects strongly with leadership. In business, we can’t control the weather, markets, or tax changes — but we can control how we think, how we lead, and how we look after our people.
At Rural CA, we often talk about building financial and strategic toolkits. Nigel’s book reminded me that we also need emotional ones — ways to reset, breathe, and choose our next move with intention.
So if life or business feels a bit turbulent right now, Lessons on Living is a powerful read. It’s real, wise, quietly practical, and very funny in places (make sure to read the foot and end notes…. Otters: Who knew?).
A great book — and an excellent Christmas gift.