The Power of Resilience: Achieving Balance, Confidence, and Personal Strength in Your Life

Why can some of us overcome life's greatest trials while others become burdened by the slightest setback? What factors help some adults bounce back from adversity while others languish in feelings of helplessness and hopelessness? And what exactly is the inner strength that some people simply exude in their daily lives? Such people possess a powerful quality called resilience. In this seminal work, two of America's foremost clinical psychologists explore the concept of resilience and show how it can be developed and strengthened. The term resilience is often reserved for those who have overcome overwhelming obstacles. But in reality, each of us encounter stress every day, and no one knows when we may face unexpected hardship. According to Drs. Robert Brooks and Sam Goldstein, a resilient mindset is helpful in every aspect of ordinary living, providing a foundation of emotional strength that sees us through both routine challenges and sudden problems. Working in turn, this positive mindset and the behaviors and skills they develop create a process that is constantly in operation, buoying us along. The main features that compose such a mindset include: Feeling in control of one's life Knowing how to fortify one's "stress hardiness" Displaying effective communication and interpersonal capabilities Establishing realistic goals and expectations Learning from both success and failure Feeling special (not self-centered) while helping others to feel the same Moreover, mindsets can be changed. Part of this process is understanding the "negative scripts" that are barriers to change. These counterproductive ways of thinking can become so entrenched that they are difficult to deviate from. For example, a negative script can dictate a woman ending a relationship when she is asked to make a commitment, or a man having difficulties expressing anger even when he is justified. Once you can recognize these scripts and take responsibility for your actions, you open the door to more productive paths. In addition to providing specific strategies and exercises, Drs. Brooks and Goldstein share inspiring real-life stories drawn from their own individual practices and workshops. As these encourage you to reflect on your relationships, goals, and dreams, you will realize the power of resilience that will enrich you in countless ways throughout your life. Robert Brooks, Ph.D., is on the faculty of Harvard Medical School and on the staff of McLean Hospital. He is one of today's leading speakers and authors on the themes of resilience, self-esteem, motivation, and family relationships. During the past twenty-five years, he has presented his message nationally and internationally to thousands of individuals, educators, and mental health professionals. His website is www.drrobertbrooks.com. Sam Goldstein, Ph.D., is on the faculty of the University of Utah and is a leading speaker on child development and neuropsychology. He is the author of ten previous books, and he has been featured in and produced a number of award-winning videos for parents, teachers, and children. In private practice for twenty years, one-third of his patients are adults with histories of neurological and genetic conditions, and he regularly sees individuals suffering from trauma, early Alzheimer's, learning disabilities, and ADHD. His website is www.samgoldstein.com. Drs. Brooks and Goldstein created the award-winning documentary, Tough Times/Resilient Kids, and are the authors of Raising Resilient Children and Nurturing Resilience in Our Children. A Groundbreaking Guide to Leading a Resilient Life "Brooks and Goldstein have done it again! Continuing their pioneering work on resilience, they now show how and why it is never too late for adults to find strength and safety inSam Goldstein is the author of 'The Power of Resilience: Achieving Balance, Confidence, and Personal Strength in Your Life', published 2004 under ISBN 9780071391047 and ISBN 0071391045.