Looking Up

How a Different Perspective Turns Obstacles into Advantages

By: Michele Sullivan

Narrated by: Michele Sullivan

Imagine being born into a world where fitting in was never an option.

Michele Sullivan, one of the most powerful women in philanthropy, was born with a rare form of dwarfism. Meaning she has spent her entire life looking up. As the first female president of the Caterpillar Foundation, she has used her unique point of view to impact countless lives around the world.

As a child, Michele decided to life a life of meaning, by:

• Tailoring her differences into something more suitable for the world.
• Hiding from the world and live on the fringe.
• Embracing her differences to turn them into assets.
• Recognize that there was a strength within her that could help others.

Looking Up is the story of how Michele became the smallest woman at the largest earth-moving manufacturer in the world. While her height has presented challenges that are different from most, it has allowed her to see things that others do not, literally and figuratively.

Embedded in this narrative are unique (and often hilarious) takeaways for individuals about the importance of making the first move, being wrong at first, choosing intimacy over influence, and learning that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.

©2020 Michele Sullivan (P)2020 HarperCollins Leadership

Critic reviews

"Michele's call to action is simple but profound: Strip away the deep-seated biases and view others, instead, for their inherent value. Her captivating story and the enlightened lessons woven within will inspire you to live better, and to elevate others along your path." (Bill Kurtis, renowned American television journalist, producer, narrator, and news anchor)

'Throughout my career I was influenced and touched by some amazing leaders—Michele is one of them. As I strived to be a better leader, I learned from the example she set by embracing diversity and practicing the principles she has outlined in Looking Up. As I have dealt with the challenges of an ALS diagnosis, I have drawn from the courage Michele demonstrates each and every day. Her book will make you laugh and cry but more importantly, think. Enjoy'—Ed Rappe

'This book is a helpful resource for anyone interested in personal and professional growth. Because you are in charge of your own growth, I'd encourage you to grab a copy and read it with your team. I'm certainly going to do just that!'—Clay Scroggins, Author, How to Lead in a World of Distraction

Easy Listen, Great Perspective

This was an easy to listen to book with some profound statements and stories. Michelle did a great job retelling her own story and I LOVE that she read it herself because her laughter as she read made it feel more like listening to a friend with great stories. It's an inspiring book and I look forward to sharing it with others.

Everyone needs to look up!

I love this book. Michele’s stories bring to life the value of recognizing that we can learn and grow through interaction with every single person we encounter - if we choose to look up to them. How much richer would life be if we actually all took this perspective in life.
I personally feel richer for having known Michele and learning from her very inspiring life experiences. I only hope to be as good as she has become at looking up to others.

different narrator needed

While author's story is compelling and I had tears in my eyes quite often, I found myself thinking that I want different voice. Author mentioned herself in the book that her voice was squeaky, and yes it was. Annoying sometimes. So you've been warned.

Other than that it's a touching story of what someone can achieve with luck and support despite physical disadvantages.