Thrivers is a book written by Michele Borba, an educational psychologist and author of over 20 books. In this book, she explores the concept of “thrivers” – individuals who not only survive difficult situations but thrive in the face of adversity. Borba’s research shows that resilience is not just something that some people have and others don’t, but rather, it is a set of skills that can be learned and developed. Thrivers is a guidebook for developing these skills and becoming a thriver yourself.
Chapter 1: The Power of Optimism
In the first chapter of Thrivers, Borba introduces the concept of optimism and how it plays a key role in resilience. She explains that optimism is not just a positive outlook on life, but rather a set of beliefs and attitudes that can help individuals navigate through difficult situations. Borba provides practical tips for developing optimism, such as reframing negative thoughts and focusing on the positive. She also discusses the importance of modeling optimism for children and how it can help them develop resilience.
Chapter 2: The Art of Persistence
In the second chapter, Borba delves into the concept of persistence and how it relates to resilience. She explains that persistence is not just about pushing through obstacles, but also about knowing when to take a break and recharge. Borba provides strategies for developing persistence, such as setting achievable goals and breaking them down into smaller steps. She also discusses the importance of modeling persistence for children and how it can help them develop resilience.
Chapter 3: The Power of Emotional Intelligence
In the third chapter, Borba explores the concept of emotional intelligence and how it relates to resilience. She explains that emotional intelligence is not just about managing emotions, but also about understanding and responding to the emotions of others. Borba provides strategies for developing emotional intelligence, such as practicing empathy and active listening. She also discusses the importance of modeling emotional intelligence for children and how it can help them develop resilience.
Chapter 4: The Art of Flexibility
In the fourth chapter, Borba introduces the concept of flexibility and how it relates to resilience. She explains that flexibility is not just about being able to bend and adapt to changing circumstances, but also about having a growth mindset and being open to new experiences. Borba provides strategies for developing flexibility, such as embracing change and trying new things. She also discusses the importance of modeling flexibility for children and how it can help them develop resilience.
Chapter 5: The Power of Gratitude
In the fifth chapter, Borba explores the concept of gratitude and how it relates to resilience. She explains that gratitude is not just about being thankful for what one has, but also about cultivating an attitude of appreciation and generosity. Borba provides strategies for developing gratitude, such as keeping a gratitude journal and practicing random acts of kindness. She also discusses the importance of modeling gratitude for children and how it can help them develop resilience.
Conclusion
Overall, Thrivers is a comprehensive guide to developing resilience and thriving in the face of adversity. Throughout the book, Borba provides practical tips and strategies for developing optimism, persistence, emotional intelligence, flexibility, and gratitude. She also emphasizes the importance of modeling these skills for children and how they can help them develop resilience. Thrivers is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their resilience and thrive in life.