Book excerpt: Sharpen your skills and shape attitudes to achieve high levels of success personally and professionally The Optimism Advantage offers tangible, proven techniques for turning life's obstacles into opportunities with confidence and competence. Today's economy offers plenty of reasons to feel powerless and frustrated. But why would you, when it offers just as many reasons to be optimistic, resourceful, and persistent? After all, adversity is everywhere...but it's how you handle adversity that makes the difference in your personal and professional life. Each chapter provides new ways to sharpen your own skills and help others to face ever-present organizational and personal challenges with the kind of positive attitude that leads to resilience and results. Presents important truths for maintaining your sanity and effectiveness during times of economic or organizational turmoil Shows you how to turn yourself into a valuable, recyclable asset, rather than a disposable "employee" Author Terry Paulson is a preeminent expert on the human side of optimism and a powerful, renowned professional speaker The Optimism Advantage offers much needed relief, hope, and practical tools for everyone who feels trapped and powerless in the face of current economic conditions.