The Art of Resilience: 100 Paths to Wisdom and Strength in an Uncertain World [Paperback]

Carol Orsborn (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: June 2, 1997

Life is a tricky, often difficult journey, so few qualities are more important to our health and peace of mind than resilience of spirit. Carol Orsborn, an internationally recognized businesswoman, theologian, and motivational speaker, has created an inspiring guide to one hundred different ways to find wisdom and strength in an uncertain world. Her stories, anecdotes, and practical advice--inspired by the teachings of spiritual masters from both Eastern and Western traditions--are guaranteed to help anyone learn to rebound gracefully and productively when up against forces that are beyond our control. Each practical tip, each seed of wisdom, is encased in a one- or two-page story that's touching or humorous or thought provoking.

The Art of Resilience is for anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed by disappointment, illness, or loss. It is a book that offers hope and comfort and reminds us, in ways both large and small, that we must move through and beyond disappointment to find our God-given capacity for love and joy.

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Review

Resilience is the art of accepting and transcending pain, rather than escaping it in a frenzy of denial. "The deeper the channels pain carves into your soul, the greater the capacity for joy your soul can contain," promises author and founder of Overachievers Anonymous, Carol Orsborn. Relying on stories, anecdotes, and practical advice, Orsborn teaches the 10 stages of resilience. The first stage is "The Point of Impact," when our tendency is to avoid suffering at all costs. Orsborn then guides us all the way to Stage 10, "Beyond Resilience," at which point readers are summoned to be "profoundly changed" instead of wallowing in suffering.

About the Author

Carol Orsborn is the founder of Overachievers Anonymous. Her previous books include How Would Confucius Ask for a Raise? and Solved by Sunset. She has led hundreds of problem-solving workshops for major corporate clients around the country. She teaches courses for Vanderbilt University's Divinity School and the university's Center for Leadership Development. She lives in Nashville, Tennessee.

Product Details

• Paperback: 300 pages
• Publisher: Three Rivers Press; 1st edition (June 2, 1997)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0609800612
• ISBN-13: 978-0609800614
• Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 0.6 x 8.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12.8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (7 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #919,229 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

15 of 15 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars This book is uplifting without being Pollyannaish., February 27, 1999

By 

[e-mail] (Albion, Michigan) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Art of Resilience: 100 Paths to Wisdom and Strength in an Uncertain World (Paperback)

I found the Art of Resilience a worthwhile read, particularly for someone dealing with grief or loss of some type. The format would appeal to one who suffers as it is organized into brief chapters containing vignettes, philosophy, or advice. It is not a long, heavy read of how you SHOULD feel, but rather an uplifting look at how you could choose to confront an illness, a death, or just one of the many setbacks that we are all destined to encounter on the journey of life. It would be a wonderful gift to place into the hands of a friend in need.

14 of 14 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars This book will give you tools that will last a lifetime., February 26, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: The Art of Resilience: 100 Paths to Wisdom and Strength in an Uncertain World (Paperback)

"The Art of Resilience" will be one of my top 10 recommendations for my friends. Everyone can benefit from the wisdom in this book and use the tools provided throughout their entire life. Life naturally has its ups and downs and this book has helped me to relax and go with the flow more easily.

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Best Book on Resilience, October 22, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: The Art of Resilience: 100 Paths to Wisdom and Strength in an Uncertain World (Paperback)

This book is both inspired and inspirational! I suggest you keep it on your nightstand and read a section every morning and night. The readings are short and to the point. Don't be surprised if this book becomes your best friend.