'a powerful text that will benefit any reader' - Dr Richard Harris SC, OAM, hero of the Thai cave rescue Life is hard. Rocketing rates of physical and mental health issues are testimony to the immense pressures of our complex world. So how do we become tough and adaptable to face life's challenges? The Resilience Shield provides that defence. In their groundbreaking guide to overcoming adversity, Australian SAS veterans Dr Dan Pronk, Ben Pronk DSC and Tim Curtis take you behind the scenes of special operations missions, into the boardrooms of leading companies and through the depths of contemporary research in order to demystify and define resilience. Through lessons learned in and out of uniform, they've come to understand the critical components of resilience and how it can be developed in anyone - including you. The Resilience Shield explores the hard-won resilience secrets of elite soldiers and the latest thinking on mental and physical wellbeing. This book will equip you with an arsenal of practical tools for you to start making immediate improvements in your life that are attainable and sustainable. Let's build your shield! Praise for The Resilience Shield 'informative and enlightening . . . compelling lessons and advice' - The Hon Julie Bishop 'Clear, approachable insights into resilience' - Merrick Watts 'A blend of raw experience and impeccable science...a brilliant guidebook for our times' - Hugh Mackay AO
'An approachable program I wholeheartedly believe actually works' - Sarah Wilson Take positive action towards creating a life full of joy and power and become the master of your anxious mind. The Anxiety Reset Method is a 12-week program for those with high-functioning anxiety, offering entirely holistic solutions to both the psychological and physical factors that contribute to anxiety. Merging science with the spiritual, and good health with good sense, this revolutionary method works with anxiety by restoring gut health and hormone balance as well as our thoughts and beliefs for better living. Qualified nutritionist and naturopath, hypnotherapist, and anxiety mindset coach Georgie Collinson will guide you to towards building unstoppable self-belief, deep self-love and unshakeable inner confidence - step by step over the course of 12 weeks. Follow a clear pathway to overcome any self-doubt spirals, inner critic battles and the exhausting pressure of high-functioning anxiety, and create the resilience you need to thrive.
'I had seen dozens of people die horrible deaths ... This time was different. This time it was a friend of mine dying in the dirt in front of me, and it was my job to save him.' Dr Dan Pronk served on over 100 combat missions in Afghanistan as a frontline special forces combat doctor, where the casualties he treated were his fellow SAS soldiers and commandos, local civilians and even the enemy. The thrill of adventure and the challenges of battlefield medicine brought out the very best in Dan; he discovered a sense of purpose in pushing his medical skills and courage to the limits. But there was a cost. In this frank and vivid memoir, Dan describes the highs and lows of his military-medical career, and the very real toll they took on his mental health and family life. He writes movingly about the burden of saving - and failing to save - friends and comrades, the feelings of helplessness and despair that haunted him, and the journey back to a meaningful and fulfilling civilian life. The Combat Doctor is an extraordinary story of resilience and growth, and a tribute to the doctors and medics working behind the scenes in conflict around the world. Praise for The Combat Doctor 'I love Dan's insight from his beginnings as an everyday guy, who pushes himself into operating in a very, very non-everyday environment. A fascinating account of what it is like to go into battle, and the unseen mental battles that arise from the experience. Honest and inspiring. I loved it.' - Hamish Blake 'Dr Pronk walks us to the very gates of hell and points to the nightmare that is modern warfare. The thrall of combat, the dread of buried mines, and the shattered bodies of his mates all feature in this parallel universe that was Australia's war in Afghanistan. This is not some well-worn trope of heroism in war - it brings to life the ghosts of Australia's best fighters: their grit, their humour, and their final moments. These fallen sons both haunted and inspired Dan to live a complete life. A searing story: unforgettable and important.' - Mark Wales 'Beyond the headlines, popular imagery and mythology of SAS and Commandos, are stories of duty and devotion to one another. The Combat Doctor is both a participant and an observer - of skill, courage, death and growth from the traumatic aftermath of war. Step out of your comfort zone, accept the challenge to a better person.' - Dr Brendan Nelson 'Dr Dan Pronk transports the reader into the boots and under the combat helmet of Special Forces in a way few writers can. The idea of a fully armed doctor engaging with an enemy to potentially take life and then within seconds fighting to save one is an incredibly unique perspective. Dan's memoir of his time as a combat doctor, saving lives and at times losing them in the midst of battle, offers a rare, heartfelt perspective of the best, bravest and worst of humanity - but one we all benefit from hearing. ' - Merrick Watts 'Dan gives us an uncensored look into the darkest sides of combat and a raw, personal account of events that have become legend in the Special Forces world. An open, frank look into the mind of the doctor you want by your side when the unthinkable happens.' - Damien Thomlinson
‘I was an easy target. You didn’t have to be a trained sniper to take the shot.’ Easy Target is the inspirational story of a young man’s journey from being an easy target and victim of bullying to forging fortitude and resilience in order to battle the bullies and the black dog of depression. Adam tells his story with raw honesty which at times is heartbreaking and at other times, hilarious. Easy Target outlines the real-life steps Adam has taken in order to overcome his darkest days, change his mindset and transform his life. With contributing chapters by best-selling authors, this book is about change, hope, and belief for a brighter future. “A must read to nurture perspective and understanding of those around us and especially ourselves.” -PAUL DE GELDER Endorsements “This book is a must read for anyone who thinks that `nasty words’ whether written or spoken don’t leave a lasting legacy. When those words are critical, mean, and constant, the damage can run deep, and affect a person’s life in ways that are unimaginable. But this isn’t a sad tale that will leave you feeling flat… It is a powerful story of someone who faced all those demons and came out on top. I have no doubt Adam’s honesty, courage, openness, and journey of self-help, self-discovery, and healing, will no doubt assist others that are struggling with their mental health. He has shared his darkest moments, and explained the constructive and helpful steps he took to regain control of his life. Bravo Adam.” JOHANNA GRIGGS, TV Presenter and Beyond Blue Director “A truly inspiring tale of one man’s struggles to overcome life’s pitfalls. Adam’s story is full of heart-wrenching and at times, hilarious reflections which leave the reader feeling there is always a way forward, no matter how tough the road. Be prepared to laugh, cry, and take life by the horns!” AMELIA ADAMS, 60 Minutes Reporter ‘If someone had given me a book like this when I was a budding young man, I don’t think I would have felt as lost and alone all those years. A must read to nurture perspective and understanding of those around us and especially ourselves. Paul de Gelder, Author, Veteran, TV Presenter, and International Speaker "If you were to look up the words 'courage' and inspiration' in the dictionary, there should be the name Adam Blum included in the definition. His is such a powerful story, told with such honesty and surprising humour for all that he has faced and endured. It's a tough story but also uplifting. I have no doubt that by sharing his story, Adam will help others overcome adversity. Well done on a ripper book." DEBORAH KNIGHT, 2GB Sydney Radio Host / A Current Affair Host ‘’Adam’s open and honest account of the difficulties life can present and his journey to defeating them is inspirational to say the least.” DAMIEN THOMLINSON, Former Commando and Author. “This is a deeply inspiring book that touches the heart and uplifts the spirit. Adam Blum’s story of fortitude, determination, and courage to overcome challenges is a beacon of hope for those facing their own battles. Through sharing his journey, Adam reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles and there is always strength to be found within ourselves. Hilarious and honest. Heart-breaking and uplifting. This book is a testament to the transformative power of resilience and a reminder that, sometimes, one is better than none and better than two.” JANINE GARNER, Author, and International Speaker “By being open, honest, and vulnerable, Adam demonstrates immense courage in sharing his story. Adam has endured significant hardship throughout his life, yet his resilience in the face of adversity is incredibly inspiring. I have no doubt Easy Target will leave a lasting impression on all those that read it. The world is definitely a better place with Adam in it.” HUGO TOOVEY, Army Major, Cancer Survivor, and founder of 25 STAY ALIVE “Adam's story is a story of triumph in the face of overwhelming adversity at multiple stages in his life. Having overcome so much at such a young age, his story is a must read for those suffering in silence on how to be inspired to turn their life around. “ CHRIS MAY, Veteran, Fire Fighter and Host of the Dad Ready Podcast. “Honest, kind, and intelligent. These are words I already knew about Adam Blum. But strong, resilient, and brave are what I have learnt about him since reading his book Easy Target. Told with unflinching honesty, Adam shows true strength that has defied the bully’s taunts and the teacher who told him he would “amount to nothing.” Instead, he has thrived because of them. Adam’s book is a must-read for anyone who is struggling. It’s an important story that will save your life.” DONNA BOURKE, Former Warrant Officer Class 2 Army Intelligence and Author. "Adam displays the very essence of the attributes to hold courage and vulnerability. With an empathetic dialogue Adam takes us on a raw and authentic journey through his life's struggles and triumphs. We feel his pain and relish in his joy through his captivating narrative. Adam is a role model for young men in our communities and I have no doubt will save lives through his relatable rose that grew from concrete journey. It is an honour to call you a friend and colleague." SARAH SPICER, Qualified Fire Fighter Fire + Rescue NSW.
This book constitutes the proceedings of the First International Conference on Bridging the Gap between AI and Reality, AISoLA 2023, which took place in Crete, Greece, in October 2023. The papers included in this book focus on the following topics: The nature of AI-based systems; ethical, economic and legal implications of AI-systems in practice; ways to make controlled use of AI via the various kinds of formal methods-based validation techniques; dedicated applications scenarios which may allow certain levels of assistance; and education in times of deep learning.
Ah, the corporate world. A place where dreams go to die and Excel spreadsheets go to multiply. Or is it? What if I told you that beneath the surface of mind-numbing meetings and soul-crushing cubicles lies a secret world of corporate ninjas, silently shaping the fate of companies and careers alike? Welcome, dear reader, to "The Art of the Corporate Ninja: Succeeding in Business Without Losing Your Soul (or Your Mind)". If you've picked up this book, chances are you're either: A bright-eyed newcomer to the corporate jungle, eager to learn its ways (bless your heart) A battle-hardened veteran, wondering if there's more to life than TPS reports Someone who accidentally grabbed this instead of "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance" (honest mistake, they're practically the same thing) Regardless of which category you fall into, strap in. You're about to embark on a journey that will transform you from a mere corporate drone into a lean, mean, PowerPoint-presenting machine. "In the world of business, the people who are most successful are those who are doing what they love." - Warren Buffett Okay, that's a nice quote and all, but let's be real. Not all of us can be Warren Buffett, sipping on Cherry Coke while making billion-dollar decisions. Some of us are just trying to make it through the day without stapling our tie to important documents or falling asleep in a meeting about meetings. That's where the art of the corporate ninja comes in. This book will teach you how to: Navigate office politics with the stealth of a shadow Deliver presentations that don't put people to sleep (a true superpower) Master the art of looking busy while doing absolutely nothing Climb the corporate ladder without stepping on too many fingers And most importantly, maintain your sanity and sense of humor in a world gone mad But wait, there's more! Unlike other business books that take themselves way too seriously, this one comes with a healthy dose of sarcasm, pop culture references, and the occasional dad joke. Because let's face it, if you can't laugh at the absurdity of corporate life, you're in for a long, dreary career. So whether you're aiming for the corner office or just trying to survive until Friday, this book has something for you. It's part survival guide, part comedy routine, and part Zen koan (yes, really). By the time you're done, you'll be slicing through red tape with the precision of a samurai sword and deflecting pointless emails faster than Neo dodging bullets in The Matrix. A word of warning: reading this book may cause uncontrollable eye-rolling, sudden outbursts of laughter, and a strong desire to karate chop your keyboard. Side effects may include increased productivity, better work-life balance, and the ability to see through corporate BS from a mile away. Ready to unleash your inner corporate ninja? Turn the page, young grasshopper. Your journey to business badassery begins now. Oh, and if your boss catches you reading this at work, just tell them it's a very serious book about synergizing paradigms and leveraging core competencies. They'll either be impressed or so confused they'll leave you alone. Win-win. Now, let's begin our training. Hajime!
Growing a Growth Mindset: Unlocking Character Strengths through Children’s Literature provides teachers with an innovative approach to teaching children the positive psychology constructs that underlie self-belief, goal motivation, and happiness. Through selected children’s books, the book brings to life the latest research and strategies for developing growth mindset, hope, grit, character strengths, and happiness. Each of these positive psychology constructs is explored through a set of three picture book classics that makes the research understandable to even the youngest learner. The National Council for Social Studies inquiry approach drives each book-driven analysis of the selected stories. This inquiry-based approach is organized around a compelling question and provides a complete outline, including formative and summative questions and assessments, as well as extensions that share this vital learning with parents. Lessons in this book have been created by outstanding teachers and have been field tested in classrooms across the region with extraordinary results.
Superhero Strengths: A CBT Workbook for Kids' Anxiety A Kids' Guide to Building Resilience, Managing Anxiety, and Unlocking Inner Superpowers Empower kids to be their own superheroes with Superhero Strengths: A CBT Workbook for Kids' Anxiety! Designed specifically for children, this engaging workbook helps kids understand and manage their anxiety, build resilience, and discover the inner superpowers that help them face everyday challenges. Through fun, interactive exercises based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), this book provides practical tools for children to overcome worry and self-doubt. Each chapter introduces a new "superpower," like Calm, Confidence, Kindness, and Resilience, offering activities that make it easy for kids to learn and practice these skills. With approachable language, encouraging guidance, and step-by-step activities, children are empowered to take control of their feelings and become their own heroes. Inside this workbook, kids will discover: The Calm Superpower: Techniques to help them stay grounded and handle overwhelming emotions. The Confidence Superpower: Practical exercises to build self-belief and encourage positive self-talk. The Kindness and Compassion Superpower: Lessons on empathy and how to support others. The Resilience Superpower: Tools to "bounce back" from setbacks and keep trying. The Courage Superpower: Step-by-step methods for overcoming fears with small, manageable steps. Each superpower is taught through relatable examples, creative worksheets, and hands-on activities that help kids connect with and practice these powerful skills in real-life situations. The book also includes a special Superpower Journal section to track progress and reflect on moments of courage, resilience, and kindness. Perfect for kids ages 7-12, Superhero Strengths is an ideal resource for children struggling with anxiety or simply looking to strengthen their emotional resilience. Parents, educators, and mental health professionals will find this workbook to be a supportive tool for guiding children on their journey to managing anxiety and discovering their inner strengths. Help kids unlock the superpowers they already have within! Superhero Strengths is more than a workbook—it’s a journey of self-discovery, growth, and empowerment, helping children become their bravest, strongest selves.
