If ever there was a time for resilience, it’s now. As we all grapple with the immediate and after-effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, we urgently need to find productive and healthy ways to navigate the stressors of life. And there’s perhaps no one more qualified to teach us these skills than Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe.

An internationally recognized scholar, educator, and speaker in the field of resiliency, Robyne has devoted her career to studying and advocating for what she calls “everyday resilience.”

We are thrilled to be publishing her new book, Calm Within the Storm, this month—an incredible resource on cultivating resiliency to get through today, and all the challenges of tomorrow. Read on to learn more about Robyne, her book, and the valuable insights she has to share.

Which three words best describe you?
Compassionate, loyal, courageous–and of course, resilient!

What is your book about?
My book is about resiliency, but not for resiliency’s sake. It is a tender but mighty approach to change how we think about navigating the challenges and stressors in our lives. I have braided together personal story, research, and application so people can awaken their most resilient selves.

What is the last book you read?
The Poppy Field by Deborah Carr. I blissfully cry my way through historical fiction like it is a sport! 

Where do you find inspiration?
First and foremost, my inspiration comes from my family, both past and present. I come from a long line of feisty Scots who valued faith, family, and hard work. I feel deeply connected to my ancestors who made their way to Canada from Scotland with nothing. My family took unimaginable risks to make my present circumstances possible.

I also find inspiration from my love of reading and learning, and in being curious.

What advice would you give your younger self?
To learn as quickly as possible to be DONE. Not mad, sad, or bothered by things–just DONE. I wish I had learned to protect my peace at all costs sooner.

What’s your favorite thing to do in your downtime?
I love my time with my family, living boldly and simply in the life we are afforded. I love walking our dogs, planning, movement practices, and learning. I love reading, getting pulled into outlaw show marathons, being in motion, and being in nature!