Rules of Resilience: 10 Ways Successful People Get Better, Wiser, and Stronger

In this cogent and down-to-earth guide, life coach Burton (Let Go of the Guilt) aims to equip readers with the skills to thrive in an unpredictable world. Outlining 10 rules for resilience, she advises readers to develop contingency plans for crises and potential opportunities alike, noting that strengthening decision-making skills is vital for managing unexpected success. Other advice includes controlling what one can and accepting the rest, such as others’ actions and emotions (though one can control one’s own responses to them); taking regular breaks to maintain energy levels; and dealing with problems early on rather than brushing them under the rug. The author interweaves personal anecdotes with examples of others who grappled with roadblocks of their own (from how she dealt with a miscarriage by leaning on her faith and pivoting to her backup plan, adoption, to how Destiny Child’s Michelle Williams handled the unexpected pressures of fame). Burton also makes clear throughout that while assets like physical health and money can help one’s resilience, so do adaptive skills and other resources—like faith and close relationships—that readers already have and can further develop. This will go a long way toward empowering readers to handle whatever life throws at them. (Sept.)