A friend and neighbor recommended this book and I was intrigued.

In my 35+ years in working with youth, as a parent and more recently, working with others who are parents and grandparents, I have seen hundreds of books on youth. While not technically skeptical, I was not sure if I should get "jazzed" about this book.

Short story- I was impressed.

The books outline alone, was impressive. She explores some key traits such as:

• Self Confidence
• Empathy
• Self-Control
• Integrity
• Curiosity
• Perseverance
• Optimism 

Additionally, she offers case studies, examples, and her own personal experiences in each chapter. What was refreshing is that she does not present herself in a hierarchy where she is above the parents, teachers or children, but rather a team-player, co-supporting everyone for the greater good of the children.

The author, Dr. Michele Borba, offers 7 teachable traits, as outlined above, that will help to safeguard our kids for the future.

We think we have to push our kids to do more, achieve more, BE more. But we’re modeling the wrong traits—like rule-following and caution—and research shows it’s NOT working. This kind of “Striver” mindset isn’t just making kids unhappier, says Dr. Michele Borba…it’s actually the opposite of what it takes to thrive in the uncertain world ahead.

We know this doesn't work well emotionally for adults so why would we assume this is healthy for children?

Thrivers are different: they flourish in our fast-paced, digital-driven, often uncertain world. Why?

Through her in-depth research, Dr. Borba discovered that the difference comes down not to grades or test scores, but to seven character traits that set Thrivers apart—confidence, empathy, self-control, integrity, curiosity, perseverance, and optimism. The even better news: these traits can be taught to children at any age…in fact, parents and educations must do so.

In Thrivers, Dr. Borba offers practical, actionable ways to develop these traits in children from preschool through high school, showing how to teach kids how to cope today so they can thrive tomorrow.

While I do not feel this is a book that is directly about Zen Buddhism or mindfulness, it indirectly offer a Zen approach to parenting; it is about being present in the moment, preparing the child mind and spirit for the present and future world, and it offers parents and anyone who works with children supportive, productive strategies that bring results- and more importantly, peace.

I think this book should be on every parent, teacher and therapists nightstand.

Below, you'll find the kindle, paperback and audible options of this book. Grab a copy for yourself or someone you know who is in contact with children.