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The Resilience Shield
'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
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
404 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 27, 2021
108 people are currently reading
500 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
October 21, 2022
Written by ex-SAS veterans, explores years of hard-won lessons on wellbeing - not just about toughening up, actually about bouncing back from adversity. Their Systems framework is likened to an Persian rug or Kevlar, where individual strands are weak, but are strong when strands weave in and out of eachother. The multilayer resilience shield is comprised of : 1) Innate, 2) Mind, 3) Body, 4) Social, 5) Professional, 6) Adaptation.
Rather than a David Goggins style rant, they display impressive academic chops with some comprehensive research. I liken their anecdotal case-studies to writers like GEN Stanley McCrystal’s in his ‘Team of Teams’.
I wish this was release 10 years ago, remembering some ‘resilience exercises’ that boiled down to extra PT and sleep deprivation. This is a great call to action to be active in your own rescue, and strive to go always a little further.
Rather than a David Goggins style rant, they display impressive academic chops with some comprehensive research. I liken their anecdotal case-studies to writers like GEN Stanley McCrystal’s in his ‘Team of Teams’.
I wish this was release 10 years ago, remembering some ‘resilience exercises’ that boiled down to extra PT and sleep deprivation. This is a great call to action to be active in your own rescue, and strive to go always a little further.
August 14, 2021
I was drawn to this book after reading Mark Wales’ book ‘Survivor’ and was not disappointed. The Resilience Shield provided actionable insights into all things physical, mental and spiritual development through the lens of former SAS regimen. It provided thoughtful recommendations of other books, content and studies - which was useful when understanding the concepts presented. The Resilience Plan aspect was detailed, thorough and practical, which I really appreciated. The book also related to the everyday man and woman, emphasising the importance of making mistakes and that not every day will be perfect. This was refreshing, positive and uplifting. A great read, with touches of humour mixed with harrowing stories.
September 17, 2021
The world around us is complex. Not complicated, but complex. Intertwined systems in a constant state of flux. So what can we do to help ourselves confront this stressful ever changing complexity?
We need to build resilience.
I have read many books on resilience as a psychology student, especially when I studied positive psychology overseas with experts in the field. There are many books out there that claim to help develop your resilience. This book is one of the few to actually do so.
From the outset the book doesn't claim to develop your resilience but provide you with the skills you need to help build your resilience. They help you view resilience as a multifactorial response to stress and something that is just as complex as the complex system in which we live. The book is supported by an online resilience survey that will score the different layers of your resilience shield (Mind, Body, Social and Professional). You then have the option of filling out an action plan after reading each of the chapters. I discovered that, especially during the stress of teaching in lockdown, both my Body (Sleep and Nutrition) and my Professional (Competence and Purpose) layers of my shield were low. This meant that I needed to focus on building those layers back up while leaning on my solid Social and Mind layers to get me through the stress.
This book will not be leaving my bedside table as I plan to review my shield at regular periods and master my mindset over the coming months.
We need to build resilience.
I have read many books on resilience as a psychology student, especially when I studied positive psychology overseas with experts in the field. There are many books out there that claim to help develop your resilience. This book is one of the few to actually do so.
From the outset the book doesn't claim to develop your resilience but provide you with the skills you need to help build your resilience. They help you view resilience as a multifactorial response to stress and something that is just as complex as the complex system in which we live. The book is supported by an online resilience survey that will score the different layers of your resilience shield (Mind, Body, Social and Professional). You then have the option of filling out an action plan after reading each of the chapters. I discovered that, especially during the stress of teaching in lockdown, both my Body (Sleep and Nutrition) and my Professional (Competence and Purpose) layers of my shield were low. This meant that I needed to focus on building those layers back up while leaning on my solid Social and Mind layers to get me through the stress.
This book will not be leaving my bedside table as I plan to review my shield at regular periods and master my mindset over the coming months.
February 15, 2022
Audio narrated well by authors. Each chapter has a military or extreme situation anecdote to illustrate the shield. Online resources support book. I already feel resilient but still heard a few ideas to consider. More suited to male audience. Ancient philosophers quoted. Modern analogies made.
March 2, 2025
The Resilience Shield is for everyone. A very engaging read with real stories of the authors’ SAS experiences interlinked with practical life advice on how to strengthen your resilience BEFORE life’s greatest challenges come your way. The book focuses in on each of the “layers” of your resilience shield, promoting a holistic approach to strengthening your personal resilience. I highly recommend listening to the audiobook which is narrated by the authors themselves.
December 27, 2021
A very enjoyable, rewarding read, and so authentic hearing it in the authors’ own voices.
The book draws together a large number of threads from scientific and philosophical literature into a cohesive message. The theory is thoughtfully reflected in real-world stories - many the authors’ own.
I see myself referring back to this book and it’s self-contained chapters for refreshers, or for inspiration I missed the first time around. There’s plenty to absorb in this work.
The book draws together a large number of threads from scientific and philosophical literature into a cohesive message. The theory is thoughtfully reflected in real-world stories - many the authors’ own.
I see myself referring back to this book and it’s self-contained chapters for refreshers, or for inspiration I missed the first time around. There’s plenty to absorb in this work.
July 20, 2022
Listened to this on Audible, just before going through one of the toughest times in my life. My resilience shield came up as about 7/10 in the test, but I survived the tough times. This is worth an annual read and refresh
August 27, 2021
Stories that bring perspective + very practical tips to build your shield!
August 17, 2023
Resilience Shield is a brilliant work that masterfully sets out the authors concept of the six essential layers of resilience: innate, mind, body, social, professional, and adaptation.
Whilst the authors all have a background as ex-SAS / soldiers, this book has so many take aways for 'civilians'. There are plenty of additional reading references, to broaden your understanding of each 'layer'.
The book with a unique blend of personal experiences and expert insights. Through each layer, they skillfully guide readers on a transformative journey, unveiling the keys to building unbreakable mental and emotional strength.
The innate layer lays the foundation, highlighting the importance of self-awareness and embracing one's strengths and vulnerabilities. The mind layer showcases how cultivating a positive mindset and practicing mindfulness can empower us to navigate life's challenges with grace.
The body layer underscores the crucial link between physical health and resilience, offering practical tips to optimize well-being. The social layer emphasizes the significance of fostering meaningful connections and building a support network that acts as a safety net during tough times.
Transitioning to the professional layer, the authors brilliantly draw parallels between their SAS training and the corporate world, delivering invaluable lessons on leadership, adaptability, and effective communication. Finally, the adaptation layer highlights the essence of flexibility and learning from setbacks, showcasing how resilience truly comes full circle.
While the authors' SAS background adds a thrilling dimension, Resilience Shield isn't just for military enthusiasts—it's a goldmine of insights applicable to both work and life. With actionable takeaways on every page, this book provides a roadmap for individuals seeking to thrive in today's fast-paced world.
Regardless of your background, this book will empower you to armor yourself with the resilience needed to conquer any obstacle that comes your way.
I read the book in Kindle format, but have the physical copy on order with a highlighter pen for annotation and future reference.
Recommended reading.
Whilst the authors all have a background as ex-SAS / soldiers, this book has so many take aways for 'civilians'. There are plenty of additional reading references, to broaden your understanding of each 'layer'.
The book with a unique blend of personal experiences and expert insights. Through each layer, they skillfully guide readers on a transformative journey, unveiling the keys to building unbreakable mental and emotional strength.
The innate layer lays the foundation, highlighting the importance of self-awareness and embracing one's strengths and vulnerabilities. The mind layer showcases how cultivating a positive mindset and practicing mindfulness can empower us to navigate life's challenges with grace.
The body layer underscores the crucial link between physical health and resilience, offering practical tips to optimize well-being. The social layer emphasizes the significance of fostering meaningful connections and building a support network that acts as a safety net during tough times.
Transitioning to the professional layer, the authors brilliantly draw parallels between their SAS training and the corporate world, delivering invaluable lessons on leadership, adaptability, and effective communication. Finally, the adaptation layer highlights the essence of flexibility and learning from setbacks, showcasing how resilience truly comes full circle.
While the authors' SAS background adds a thrilling dimension, Resilience Shield isn't just for military enthusiasts—it's a goldmine of insights applicable to both work and life. With actionable takeaways on every page, this book provides a roadmap for individuals seeking to thrive in today's fast-paced world.
Regardless of your background, this book will empower you to armor yourself with the resilience needed to conquer any obstacle that comes your way.
I read the book in Kindle format, but have the physical copy on order with a highlighter pen for annotation and future reference.
Recommended reading.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 24, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. I listened to the audio version in my commute to and from work. This was a mix of pulling together research I had already learned about and some I hadn't. I really enjoyed the real life tales of the authors in the tough situations they had found themselves in, both in SAS and civilian life. There were many times during this book when I had lightbulb moments such as you dont build resilience unless you face tough times or challenges.
During the reading of this book I was faced with a couple of person and professional crossroads, where the books mantra "always a little further" and it got me through, and in some cases I even surprised myself. Both my mental and physical strength got an upgrade along with the confidence to know when I needed to rest.
I enjoyed the book and the capacity building it brought to my mindset. My resilience shield which in the past has looked like a shaggy patchwork quilt in the past, is now all patched up and will always be a little bit more strengthened from reading this book. Thank you.
During the reading of this book I was faced with a couple of person and professional crossroads, where the books mantra "always a little further" and it got me through, and in some cases I even surprised myself. Both my mental and physical strength got an upgrade along with the confidence to know when I needed to rest.
I enjoyed the book and the capacity building it brought to my mindset. My resilience shield which in the past has looked like a shaggy patchwork quilt in the past, is now all patched up and will always be a little bit more strengthened from reading this book. Thank you.
May 2, 2023
A well constructed and researched book that discusses the multiple factors involved in building and maintaining resilience - framed as the resilience shield. The book is written by three Australian ex-SAS servicemen and the stories and anecdotes used draw heavily from this experience - both in the field, and in regard to integrating back into civilian life.
The stories are interesting, and the authors have all had very intense experiences within the SAS, however I found the book more relatable where the book drew on broader research and anecdotes (e.g. the work by Angela Duckworth on Grit). While I enjoyed the book and found it an easy read, it may perhaps be more compelling to a male audience.
The stories are interesting, and the authors have all had very intense experiences within the SAS, however I found the book more relatable where the book drew on broader research and anecdotes (e.g. the work by Angela Duckworth on Grit). While I enjoyed the book and found it an easy read, it may perhaps be more compelling to a male audience.
December 5, 2021
Australian novel focusing on resilience, through innate, mental, physical, social and professional layers. Easy to read with practical tips on each of the layers, and the importance of balance between them.
October 20, 2023
A 7/10.
Nor surprisingly, a heavy army punctuated book, but with a great explanation of resilience layers, and how to apply tactical life examples. I'll keep returning to this in the future to apply its techniques
Nor surprisingly, a heavy army punctuated book, but with a great explanation of resilience layers, and how to apply tactical life examples. I'll keep returning to this in the future to apply its techniques
January 13, 2026
Sometimes a little bit repetitive however a very enlightening book on resilience and the resilience shield method. Plenty of introspective thoughts were piqued and has given me plenty to ponder and work on after completing this!
September 2, 2021
Great insights, actionable and ties together a lot of great stoic and historic quotes and philosophies into a modern context. Will buy it for my friends and family
November 4, 2021
Some good advice using case stories
January 11, 2022
Great read, very helpful & practical self help book without the goop-esque fluffy bs. Contains contemporary examples & stories from well known aussies which were very interesting too.
March 18, 2022
A good reminder of well-being items and how they work together, with some entertaining hyper-masculine examples from wars and similarly manly escapades.
August 17, 2025
Outstanding. Well researched, well written, interesting, enjoyable, practical. Highly recommended.
did-not-finish
November 6, 2025I tried so hard to enjoy this but nothing about it connected with me. It just felt like the same resilience book that I’ve read before.
June 28, 2024
heartfelt work thoughtfully and practically combining life skills and wellness.
A generous and thoughtful aggregate of the world’s best practitioners of wellness. I’ve read maybe a dozen books right through without stopping overly, this was one of them. Some of the others included Cornelius Ryan’s’A bridge too far’ and Hugh Poate’s ‘Failures of Command’ - thanks Dan for sharing this wonderful collection. Of wisdom, this has really changed my outlook permanently. Thanks Ben, Dan and Tim. - persist .
A generous and thoughtful aggregate of the world’s best practitioners of wellness. I’ve read maybe a dozen books right through without stopping overly, this was one of them. Some of the others included Cornelius Ryan’s’A bridge too far’ and Hugh Poate’s ‘Failures of Command’ - thanks Dan for sharing this wonderful collection. Of wisdom, this has really changed my outlook permanently. Thanks Ben, Dan and Tim. - persist .
June 9, 2022
5 Shields out of 5
Excellent book. Easily sorting through and explaining the concept of resilience.
I find that too often self-development books go on and on with too many peer-reviewed studies and superfluous anecdotes supporting the position/opinion of the author – I found this book to be the opposite. The book is succinct, articulate, well investigated and written in a way that an average Joe can understand AND implement into their life.
Excellent book. Easily sorting through and explaining the concept of resilience.
I find that too often self-development books go on and on with too many peer-reviewed studies and superfluous anecdotes supporting the position/opinion of the author – I found this book to be the opposite. The book is succinct, articulate, well investigated and written in a way that an average Joe can understand AND implement into their life.
May 5, 2023
Well put together and and easy convincing read.
I’ve read a lot on the topic of resilience and this is one of the best summations I have come across from authors that have a real, properly researched understanding. Their experience in the military gives the book a real life application that adds genuine value.
I’ve read a lot on the topic of resilience and this is one of the best summations I have come across from authors that have a real, properly researched understanding. Their experience in the military gives the book a real life application that adds genuine value.
January 19, 2023
I can't understand the good reviews. This book is extremely boring with no novel or interesting insights. It is structured in a very stereotypical, bland and traditional layout as though human beings compartmentalise their entire life into 4 categories mind, health, social and work. You would be better off reading something from Oprah than this BS
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews