An inspiring new voice in the field of resiliency gives a tender, powerful and achievable path to rise from adversities through self-acceptance and self-alignment--always based on being enough in the here and now rather than the untenable quest to be more. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe learned resilience from the ground up--not just as an accomplished university researcher, but first by overcoming mental illness, the stigma of being a high-school dropout, and almost dying in a car crash at age sixteen. Here, she presents an attainable model for everyday resilience, which everyone can use to feel more grounded and capable--and not beat themselves up in the process for not being "tough enough" in the first place.
Robyne believes that the language around resilience as "fighting" or being "tougher" is misguided; learning happens when we feel safe and trust, and fear and shame do not promote growth or change. In Awakened Resiliency, Robyne maps out a kinder approach to taking on the challenges of life and developing authentic self-alignment.
Robyne focuses on personal development practices that are research informed, sustainable, and attainable. She identifies the obstacles that derail us and keep us stuck, wondering--Why does life feel so hard? Why do so many of us seem to live in a constant state of strife and chaos?
Robyne has identified five interconnected pillars that are universal across cultures and backgrounds: Belonging, Perspective, Acceptance, Hope and Humour. These pillars form a person's capacity for resilient behaviours, despite life's challenges. She then introduces you to the Resiliency Trajectory Model by showing you resiliency in action, through stories, research and practical strategies.
Blending the grounded science of classic books on resiliency like Grit. by Angela Lee Duckworth and Resilient by Rick Hanson, with the warmth and psychological insight of Brene Brown's Gifts of Imperfection, this book offers a refreshing take on everyday practices that support resiliency. Robyne shows the reader that you are truly capable, and that being okay (rather than better) is enough.
Industry Reviews
"In the approachable and often poetic style that defines her work, Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe illustrates that resiliency isn't some ideal state achieved through suffering and scars; it's a built-in feature of being a human. As unflinching as it is insightful, this book will permanently alter how you see yourself and your ability to endure."
-Dr. Greg Wells, physiologist and researcher at SickKids, bestselling author, and keynote speaker
"Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe hits the nail square on the head. More than twenty years of expedition experience has taught me that resiliency is not an exclusive realm, reserved only for the uber-tough and fearless. Rather, this life-changing trait is available to every single one of us-in spades. In this systematic yet deeply felt book, Dr. Hanley-Dafoe lays out a simple framework that will revolutionize how you engage with all of life's adversities."
-Bruce Kirkby, Canadian adventurer, author, and photographer
"Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe has created an insightful, smart, and thought-provoking (yet practical!) manual for redefining resiliency in everyday life. This is a book that you can revisit when you're overwhelmed, in a growth period of your life, or when helping young people navigate their own path."
-Silken Laumann, Olympian and mental health advocate
"This written record of resiliency is replete with a mountain of motivation and acres of encouragement. Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe poignantly portrays her personal adolescent struggles with mental health and takes us by the hand through an intentional, sustainable pathway to mental wealth. Practical, educational, inspiring... phenomenal!"
-Michael "Pinball" Clemons, Canadian Football and Canadian Sports Hall of Famer
"Amazing and inspiring! Calm Within the Storm helps us to view and navigate the challenges of life with more understanding and positive perspective while simultaneously encouraging us to see ourselves as innately capable of overcoming and working through adversity, setbacks, and success to live resiliency daily. This is not an instructional self-help book-it is a book of empowerment and an invitation to a deeper connection with yourself. Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe's balance of vulnerability with personal stories, assurance through research and studies, and a passionate but light-hearted desire to uplift others wrap this book in good vibes and positive feels. Sit back, read, learn about your resilient self, and bounce back!"
-Cavell Johnson, NBL All-Star, coach and GM of the KW Titans, and former NCAA Basketball Division I player
"Using story and science, Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe's book provides insight to help you find whatever you are searching for. Just like her dynamic speaking style, her writing pops off the page and speaks to your heart and your head. Calm Within the Storm equips you with the skills needed to tackle challenges in these difficult times."
-Brian Callahan, president and COO of ISN
"Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe has spent over twenty years becoming a renowned expert in resiliency. Read this book, and you'll become one in a significantly shorter time. I devoured every page and loved every word. You will too."
-Ron Tite, founder and CEO of Church+State, host and executive producer of The Coup, and author of Think. Do. Say.
