Reading Recommendations

Find out what books and other media the UC San Diego Faculty and Staff Assistance Program (FSAP) recommends for employees who are seeking to build skills to manage negative stress and strengthen resiliency.

Recommended books:

• Flourish by Martin Seligman
  This book redefines happiness, shifting from a focus on fleeting positive emotions to a broader concept of well-being the author defines as "flourishing". He introduces the PERMA model (Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment) as the five essential, measurable building blocks for a fulfilling life, moving positive psychology from merely reducing misery to building a life of profound purpose and resilience.
• Feeling Good by Davis Burns
  This author posits that thoughts, not external events, create emotions, and by identifying and correcting distorted thinking, individuals can rapidly improve their moods and build self-esteem without medication. A foundational self-help guide that introduces Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) strategies to combat depression and anxiety.
• The Trauma of Everyday Life by Mark Epstein, MD
  A poignant read in light of our current life stressors and times. As a psychiatrist and a practicing Buddhist, Epstein does a wonderful job of integrating perspectives of psychology and Buddhist philosophy in exploring the transformational potential that is within the difficulties we experience every day.
• The Mindful Brain: Reflection and Attunement in the Cultivation of Well-Being by Daniel Siegel, MD
  This book emphasizes the inherent value of incorporating mindfulness-based practices within our daily lives and relationships as a context for growth and well-being.
• The Power of Vulnerability by Brene Brown
  Here, Brown argues that embracing vulnerability is not a weakness, but our most accurate measure of courage and the foundation of connection, joy and authenticity. By overcoming shame and the fear of being "not enough," individuals can foster resilience and build deeper, more meaningful lives. See the 2010 TED talk here: The Power of Vulnerability
• Mindsight by Daniel Siegel, MD.
  This book offers a cool combination of neuroscience and psychology which makes it relatable and practical. It teaches us how to use mindfulness skills for different aspects of our modern lives.
• The Book of Joy: Lasting happiness in a changing world, by His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu with Douglas Abrams (2016).
  This book offers living examples of how to live life peacefully despite health challenges, political upheaval and all the challenges of aging. Look for the appendix entitled, “Joy Practices” to develop your mental immunity, set morning intentions, cultivate joy, and connect with community. 

Recommended media resources for building resilience and managing stress (live links)

• The Greater Good Magazine from UC Berkeley .
• Insight Timer course: Mindfulness Daily at Work .
• Positive Psych - a TED talk from Shawn Achor
• InsightTimer.com’s course on radical change by Justin Michael Williams