Conquering Adversity

By Christopher Novak

Chris Novak understands adversity and what it takes to overcome it. He weathered the life-changing storm of losing his precious wife and unborn son and from that experience has created a guide that... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0974640387
• ISBN13: 9780974640389
• Release Date: October 2004
• Publisher: CornerStone Leadership Institute
• Length: 120 Pages
• Weight: 0.35 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 5.5" x 8.3"

Customer Reviews

Bounce Back from Unexpected Losses!

Conquering Adversity is that rare how-to book that combines a compelling life story with well-written practical advice that will benefit almost anyone who reads and applies the book. I highly recommend it to those who have not yet suffered an unexpected loss. You need to be prepared in advance for having the ground pulled out from under your feet, and this book will serve that purpose very well. Mr. Novak was at work one day when a telephone call alerted him that his young wife and unborn son had been in a terrible automobile accident. Shortly thereafter, both died. Grief-stricken, Mr. Novak still had to be a father for his nine-year-old son and move forward with their lives together in a way that his wife would have approved. The focus of the book quickly shifts into six strategies that should be combined to help you refocus on what needs to be done, rather than wallowing perpetually in your grief. As such this book will be of particular value for those who have to be strong for those around them at such times. The first strategy is affirmation: Identify your values that you will use to guide your next actions; appreciate what has and has not been lost; and follow a healthy selfishness to allow you to go on. The second strategy is expectation: Realize that bad things happen to good people and move on; apply optimism to what needs to be done; and avoid spending time worrying about why you have had such a loss. The third strategy is increasing communications: Lead with your heart, not your mind; communicate often; and invite others to help you. The fourth strategy is locomotion: Move quickly away from where you have the most problems; look at life as a traveler rather than as a settler; and be persistent! The fifth strategy is collaboration: Draw on those who can help you; welcome those who appreciate what you have gone through and want to help; and keep balance in your life. The sixth strategy is celebration: Laugh; have unscheduled time; and look for the silver lining in any dark clouds. The book is filled with examples and exercises to help you reinforce these new behaviors. Although the book refers to situations where an organization has to deal with a setback, this book is primarily applicable at the individual and family level. Most of the advice is good for ordinary living as well. I was interested in the idea of moving away from the situation which seems to be the biggest problem. In that way, you can get perspective on how else you can deal with the issue. I also thought that the idea of communicating more was a good one. Most people who are grieving do the opposite. I liked his exercises of using color stones to remind you if you have been doing enough positive communication. The book is quite brief. You can easily read it in one sitting . . . and learn from it for a lifetime. Nice work, Mr. Novak!

My Hero is Chris Novack

Chris Novack has inspired me as a hired professional consultant and a friend. After working with Chris on several occasions, he has assisted my career's development and advancement each and every time. My wonderful and valuable relationship with Chris was focused primarily, on a professional level - however, my strong desire to read his book became the impetus to learn what made him so extraordinary. Never in my life, could I imagine how I would benefit so greatly from Chris' story ...now on a personal level, I feel blessed to have been a part of his life...a part of "his story". I have already applied Chris' teachings (realizing tremendous success) within both, my personal life and career. No words can describe how powerful a message he delivers, but for those who embrace his teachings...will truly benefit! Simply stated, Chris Novack is my hero. I strongly encourage you and your organizations to not only ready this book, but practice it's fundamentals DAILY.

A "How to" handbook, not a "Why me?" novel.

We all know folks (family, friends, neighbors, etc.) who have suffered tragedy. Novak, like many, many others, suffered tragedy; however his book doesn't focus on the event, but on the recovery. Novak provides an incredibly powerful tool for everyone, especially those in leadership positions. Here is a handbook, a checklist, for helping people move successfully through personal tragedy, and organizational units through difficult times. I found years of personal experience in Novak's written text, communicated more clearly than I would have been capable had I been witness rather than participant. This book will be top drawer reference material for anyone charged with leadership responsibilities. Novak's insights and the guidance he offers will benefit everyone before personal tragedy. Personally, "Conquering Adversity" has immediate value for me as a handbook as I help people I care for facing difficulty. In the long term, Novak's work will undoubtedly help me prepare as well.

Must read for everyone

This book is for everyone. Let's face it; each day we face some type of adversity. Each of our days is filled with too many decisions, challenges and stress. Most of us cannot imagine the impact a life-changing tragedy would have on our lives. Chris Novak shares his own devastating life experience and provides a plan that all of us can use to get through not only our own lifetime tragedies but also our day-to-day lives. The reader learns what is valuable in life and how to identify, develop, nurture and drawn upon important human resources. This is a quick read - but don't be misled; it is not the "fast food" that too many self-help books seem to be - leaving you hungry for more insight or direction. Rather, it will nourish your inner being and allow you to deal with and truly appreciate life.

Couldn't Put it Down!

How Chris's personal adversity is entwined in the six strategies is incredible! I wish every HR Department would give this book to every employee. I'm going to order seven; one for my middle-school daughter, 3 brothers, 2 sisters, and an extra one to have to give to anyone who whines about something .. I'll hand it to him/her and say, "Take this and read it; tell me how you feel after you're finished". Personal, business, young, old ... it's an inspiration to all who read!