Life’s Tough.
Be Tougher.
A Practical Guide to Building Resilience and Mental Toughness

Real tools for resilience
Built on lived experience and professional expertise, Life’s Tough – Be Tougher offers practical, real-world strategies to build resilience in the face of setbacks and explores the impact of physical health, emotional, social and spiritual resilience.
Life is unpredictable and tough times are inevitable, but it’s how we respond that defines us. Life’s Tough—Be Tougher is a straight-talking guide to building resilience and thriving when hard times hit.
David Buttifant and Nick Farr draw on decades of coaching experience, as well as their own stories of personal loss and challenge, to show that resilience is not innate—it’s a skill you can learn. They outline the four pillars that underpin this—Physical, Emotional, Social and Psychological recovery—and provide proven strategies, daily habits and practical exercises you can put into action straight away.
Blending insights from ancient philosophy, behavioural science and their pioneering work with Resilience Builders, Buttifant and Farr offer a roadmap for turning setbacks into growth. More than survival, this book shows you how to thrive, build strength and embrace opportunities from whatever comes your way.
“Reminds us that resilience isn’t a rare trait given to the few — it’s a muscle we all can grow.”
Turia Pitt, author and advocate
Get an Exclusive Excerpt
Discover the resilience that drives Life’s Tough. Be Tougher... Nick’s story high on Cho Oyu (the world’s 6th highest mountain) shows how real strength is forged when everything is against you.

Build Resilience in Practice
Resilience Builders delivers leadership workshops, keynotes and structured training programs designed to strengthen performance under pressure.
Our E-Resilience Online Training Program provides a scalable, evidence-based pathway to embed resilience across your organisation.


