Surrounded by Setbacks

About the book

The funny and practical guide on how succeed when everything goes wrong, from the Sunday Times bestselling author of Surrounded by Idiots.

Not everything goes the way we want it to - the world or people around us sometimes just spin out of control. So how do you handle everything life throws your way when you'd really prefer to tell everyone to get stuffed?

In his uplifting and inspiring, behavioural expert and bestselling author Thomas Erikson helps you turn challenges into opportunities and failure into growth.
Drawing on the four-colour model that has inspired millions, Erikson shows you how to:


Regain control when life feels chaotic

Replace frustration with problem-solving focus

Build resilience through self-awareness and perspective

Turn adversity into lasting success



Warm, witty and full of real-world wisdom, Surrounded by Setbacks reminds you that success isn't about avoiding problems, it's about learning to handle them with courage and confidence.

Praise for Surrounded by Setbacks and Thomas Erikson:

'Outstanding . . . Erikson impresses with his trademark facility for making research-based discussions accessible and entertaining'?Publishers Weekly

'A good resource for understanding how different personalities communicate and deal with feedback...Everyone should read [it]' Business Insider

'Equal parts logical, emotionally astute, and gut-wrenchingly funny...Buy it!' Jim McPartlin, author of The Enneagram at Work

'Everyone can benefit from this book' Booklist

'Life changing' 5-star reader review

'Has enabled better communication with my peers and colleagues as well as my family.' 5-star reader review

'Clear, insightful easy to read book with plenty [of] practical advice' 5-star reader review

'A must-read to guide you on understanding yourself and others' 5-star reader review