We will all experience adversity in life - whether it comes from an inescapable event such as the virus pandemic, or whether it comes into our lives as a result of our individual choices and circumstances. How can we respond successfully in times of difficulty, change and uncertainty? Four approaches that don't work: trying "business as usual"; avoiding the problem; thinking there's only one solution; and believing you either have the talent to succeed or you don't. What does work: facing adversity and embracing our limitations; learning the lessons in our difficult situations; getting creative and drawing on past experience; developing the quality of "grit"; and responding to others who are suffering with empathy and compassion.