The Dirty Hands and Busted Knuckles primer is the first in a planned series of practical 'how to' leadership books. The primer is oriented to the new or aspiring leader who typically does not receive an integrated orientation to leadership and who typically does not understand the nuances and interdependencies of perspective, people, and process or how these impact performance. The primer can also serve those who have been in leadership roles for a longer term but who have not had the opportunity to understand how performance can be amplified via the integration of perspective, people, and process. The primer introduces the new or aspiring leader to key leadership approaches that are intended to establish a baseline understanding that leadership is truly a system and that leader effectiveness can be greatly amplified. Within each area the reader is exposed to key theories and practical application via a seasoned practitioner's perspective versus from the purely academic. Succinctly, the reader is exposed to key concepts and terms but is not overcome with technical academic vernacular. The author has highlighted the 'critical few' theories and techniques, that, if read, understood, and applied, will posture the reader for immediate positive impact within the organization. Ultimately, the Dirty Hands and Busted Knuckles primer ensures the reader understands that leadership, when most effective, requires a hands-on, thoughtful approach regardless of level or experience. It provides the reader with the incentive to continue learning more about the topics introduced - in effect, the primer jump starts the reader's professional self-development regardless of level or experience...there is always more to learn if innovation and breakthrough performance is the goal.