Hinge Moments

D. Michael Lindsay
Making the Most of Life's Transitions

In life we have moments in time in which we have an opportunity before us to make a change or to respond to a situation. According to Michael Lindsay, president of Gordon College, what follows these instances will depend intrinsically on the decisions we make and the actions we take. These are what he calls "hinge moments"—opportunities to open (or close) doors to various pathways of our lives. 

Lindsay maintains that getting these moments right can change our lives for the better, and getting them wrong can pose problems for years to come: "Some transitions have a disproportionate impact on our happiness, our contribution to society, and our family's well-being."

In these pages Lindsay shares faith-based stories of success and failure from his ten-year study of 550 PLATINUM leaders. He has charted seven phases of transition, providing both practical and spiritual insights for making the most of each stage. In uncertain and tumultuous times, there is no better advantage than wisdom gained early.

"The changes we face in life are always unique and personal, but Michael Lindsay brings comfort and confidence in the understanding that these individual experiences also reflect the universal human condition. A delightful treasury of stories, science, and wisdom, Hinge Moments will enlighten and encourage you in whatever momentous transition might come your way."

Karen Swallow Prior, author of On Reading Well: Finding the Good Life through Great Books

"If there is a time for everything, as the Bible says, then there is a time for gifted leaders to move from one season of life or place of service to the next. This beautifully written book is a handbook for life's transitions—from the restlessness that often precedes a change of calling all the way through to a new season of meaningful, productive leadership. Michael Lindsay is the perfect guide. Through his extensive research and influential work in higher education, Dr. Lindsay knows more about leadership than just about anyone. In this inspiring book he uses stories from his extensive network of fellow leaders—as well as history and the Bible—to help his readers get and stay prepared for whatever comes next."

Philip Ryken, president of Wheaton College

"Succinct yet profound, Lindsay's accessible storytelling offers comfort that you can become a master of adaptation by continuing to trust in the Lord's reliable plan for your many vocations."

Ben Sasse, US senator from Nebraska, former president of Midland University

"Whether unexpected or carefully planned, transitions in life are inevitable. In Hinge Moments, Michael Lindsay delivers brilliant insights drawn from his deep faith and years of leadership to help us make these pivotal times in our own lives into opportunities for growth and enlightenment."

Arthur C. Brooks, author and professor, Harvard Kennedy School and Harvard Business School
Close menu