What do you do when life feels overwhelming, when nothing seems to work out, or when it appears that all the odds are stacked against you? Do you surrender to despair, or do you muster the strength to rise? Do you break under pressure, or do you bounce back stronger than ever?

In Break or Bounce: How to Get Out of Your Rock Bottom, Bo Sánchez offers readers a roadmap through the difficult moments we all encounter. He presents two essential steps to navigate through challenges that feel insurmountable.

The first step is to “Change your perspective.” Sánchez emphasizes the importance of acknowledging that not all situations are meant for you to endure. Sometimes, doors close for a reason. Perhaps that dream job you didn’t land wasn’t truly the right fit, or that crush who overlooked you was not meant to be part of your story. Life doesn’t always unfold as we plan, and exceptional circumstances can lead us to unexpected places. Embracing this idea is crucial to finding peace amid chaos.

The second step is to “Take your position.” Everything happens for a reason, and this concept encourages us to accept circumstances as they come. When one door closes, it often indicates that another, more suitable door is waiting to be opened. Getting turned down for a job can redirect you toward an opportunity that aligns more closely with your skills and aspirations. Breaking up with a partner from your youth might be the precursor to meeting the love of your life later on. Even when plans fall through, it serves as an opportunity for reassessment and growth—perhaps you are destined for a greater venture. In each of these scenarios, the key is to rise, move forward, and look ahead.

Sánchez’s writing is simple to grasp yet profoundly impactful, making it both practical and inspirational. His wit shines through, and he has a unique ability to relate to readers from all walks of life. One of the many nuggets of wisdom I appreciated from this book was his shared motto: “Ora et labora,” or “Pray and work.” This mantra encapsulates the essence of his message: that faith and action go hand in hand.

Having recently finished three Australian works, Break or Bounce marks the first Filipino book I’ve read in decades—and I’m already on to my second! It feels refreshing and invigorating to reconnect with literature from my roots. Bo Sánchez has once again delivered a compelling narrative that not only resonates but also empowers readers to embrace their journeys with hope and resilience. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to find their footing in tumultuous times, reminding us that while we may face setbacks, the ability to bounce back is always within our reach.