The Resiliency Advantage

About the Author

Dr. Al Siebert (1934-2009) was the founder and director of The Resiliency Center. He earned international recognition for his research into the inner nature of highly resilient survivors. His journey into understanding resiliency was deeply personal and professional, stemming from his experiences as an ex-paratrooper and his extensive academic background with a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the University of Michigan. Dr. Siebert’s work focused on discovering what makes some people more resilient than others and how these traits can be learned at any age. His legacy continues through his influential writings and the practical tools he developed to help people thrive in the face of adversity.

Main Idea

"The Resiliency Advantage" by Dr. Al Siebert provides a comprehensive guide to developing and strengthening resiliency. Resiliency is described as the ability to adapt to life's changes and crises, which is essential for maintaining a healthy and productive life. Dr. Siebert delves into why some people are naturally more resilient and offers a unique five-level program that anyone can follow to build and enhance their resiliency. This book emphasizes the importance of banishing negative, self-defeating thoughts, breaking free from limiting roles, improving problem-solving skills, and maintaining humor and optimism during tough times. Ultimately, it aims to empower readers to become both self-reliant and socially responsible, thriving even in a rapidly changing and challenging world.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Thriving in Today's World
• Bouncing Back from Setbacks
• Level One Resiliency: Optimize Your Health
• Level Two Resiliency: Skillfully Problem Solve
• Level Three Resiliency: Strengthen Your Three Inner Selves
• Level Four Resiliency: Unleash Your Curiosity
• Level Five Resiliency: Strengthening Your Talent for Serendipity
• Integrating Your Paradoxical Abilities
• Allowing Everything to Work Well: The Synergy Talent
• Conclusion

Thriving in Today's World

Resiliency is the ability to bounce back from life’s overwhelming challenges. Dr. Siebert explains that resilient individuals handle disruptions by allowing themselves to feel and process emotions like grief, anger, and confusion. They do not let these emotions become permanent states but instead use them as catalysts for healing and growth. Resilient people often emerge from adversities stronger and more capable than before.

"They expect to rebuild their disrupted lives in a new way that works for them, and the struggle to overcome adversity develops new strengths in them." - Dr. Al Siebert

Learning to Be Resilient

The art of resiliency offers a powerful advantage in today's constantly changing world. Dr. Siebert encourages readers to create their own plans for developing resiliency, emphasizing that personal responsibility and proactive learning are crucial. In the "school of life," the learner must take charge, not the teacher.

Bouncing Back from Setbacks

The story of Gert Lamfrom and Neal Boyle, who turned a near-collapse business into the successful Columbia Sportswear, illustrates the essence of resiliency. After Neal's sudden death, Gert and her son Tim worked tirelessly to save the family business from bankruptcy, eventually transforming it into a global brand.