Resilient Optimism: The Science of Sustaining a Positive Mindset in Tough Times

Bestselling author and renowned positive psychology researcher Michelle Gielan reveals how to sustain optimism through stress, uncertainty, and change. Decades of research show that optimism is one of the most powerful predictors of happiness, performance, and success. But when it evaporates, mental clarity, morale, and health all suffer. Feeling optimistic is easy when life is good. The real challenge is in sustaining it through uncertainty, setbacks, and pressure—when we’re tired, overworked, and searching for a win. Amid the stresses of AI disruption and an unsteady economy, when workplace engagement is at an all-time low and burnout at an all-time high, resilient optimism has never been more essential. Optimism is not a feeling. It's a behavior. Drawing on the latest neuroscience and her work with thousands of leaders worldwide, Michelle Gielan reveals the repeatable behaviors that sustain optimism under pressure. You'll learn the five specific behaviors that define resilient optimists:Recalibrate your mindsetTransform your stress responseTriage your commitmentsRecharge smarterConnect the dotsWith breakthrough science and stories from people who turned adversity into advantage, you'll understand not only how to sustain your optimism but how to spread it to those who need it as much as you do. Resilient optimism isn't a predetermined trait—it's a trainable skill, accessible to anyone. Whether you're navigating organizational upheaval, economic instability, or a personal setback, resilient optimism enables you to thrive in tough times.

• Publication date: 22 September 2026
• Page count: 208
• Dimensions: Height 235 mm; Width 156 mm
• Publisher: Harvard Business Review Press
• Format: Hardback
• ISBN-13: 9798892792691