Rebounders

About the Author

Rick Newman is a prominent journalist and columnist for Yahoo! Finance. He has a distinguished career as the former chief business correspondent for U.S. News & World Report and is a frequent commentator on MSNBC, CNN, Fox, NPR, and other TV and radio networks. His insights and experiences have shaped his deep understanding of resilience and the human spirit, which he explores extensively in his book, Rebounders: How Winners Pivot From Setback to Success.

Main Idea

In Rebounders, Rick Newman delves into the concept of resilience, examining how individuals can transform setbacks into stepping stones for success. He identifies nine key traits of resilient individuals, whom he calls "Rebounders." These traits enable them to bounce back from adversity stronger, smarter, and more determined. Newman uses inspiring stories from notable figures to illustrate these traits and demystify the anatomy of resilience.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction: Four Surprises About Failure
2. What Makes a Rebounder
3. The Elements of Persistence
4. When Hardship Is a Privilege
5. The Dangers of Optimism
6. How Passion Misleads
7. When to Quit
8. Own the Suck
9. From Wallower to Rebounder
10. The Nine Attributes of Rebounders

Introduction: Four Surprises About Failure

Newman begins by sharing his personal struggles and professional setbacks, which led him to question his own failures. He highlights the pervasive nature of failure and the critical role it plays in shaping successful individuals. Newman discovered that setbacks could be a secret weapon, resilience could be learned, and small adversities were just as important as major ones. Additionally, he found that optimism could sometimes be overrated, as successful people often practiced "defensive pessimism."

"Setbacks can be a secret weapon. Overcoming setbacks can make people stronger, smarter, and more durable." – Rick Newman

Key Takeaways:

• Resilience is a crucial trait that can be developed over time.
• Setbacks, whether big or small, contribute to building resilience.
• Optimism must be balanced with a realistic assessment of challenges.

What Makes a Rebounder

Resilience is the core strength of a Rebounder. Newman explains that while some resilience is innate, most people can learn to be resilient through experience and deliberate practice. He emphasizes that "controlled" exposure to adversity, especially from a young age, helps build this trait. The ability to handle challenges and adapt to changing circumstances is what sets Rebounders apart.