The Setback Cycle

How Defining Moments Can Move Us Forward

A USA TODAY Bestseller

Available everywhere books are sold

Some of the world’s most prominent leaders attribute their setbacks to the reason they found success. Their lowest moments paved the way for their creative rebirth. Through the four phases of The Setback Cycle—Establish, Embrace, Explore, and Emerge—Amy Shoenthal guides readers on how to make sense of their experiences, gain clarity on what comes next, and move confidently into future endeavors.

That framework, developed through research and conversations with scholars, psychologists, neuroscientists, and executive coaches is supported through the deeply personal stories of founders and leaders like fashion icons Stacy London and Norma Kamali, fitness instructors Robin Arzón and Kendall Toole, chef Palak Patel, non-binary beauty influencer Cyrus Veyssi, and inspirational founders like Cate Luzio, Erica Taylor, Amanda Goetz, and more.

Whether you’re stuck in a rut after a breakup or trying to navigate an unexpected professional transition, The Setback Cycle offers guidance on how to take yourself through your toughest moments and forge a stronger path forward.

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“Through a combination of engaging storytelling and straightforward advice, Amy shows you how to work through your biggest setbacks and emerge with creativity, innovation and a strong sense of self.”

Eve Rodsky
New York Times bestselling author of Fair Play and Unicorn Space
“Every success story comes with setbacks. The key lies in learning the most you can when things don’t go as planned. In the Setback Cycle, Amy Shoenthal offers a brilliantly thorough exploration into the fascinating science behind why setbacks happen, and offers an actionable plan that enables you to emerge gracefully from them. Just think how boring the movie of your success story would be without a few bumps in the road!”

Randi Zuckerberg
Entrepreneur, best-selling author and award-winning producer
“This book feels like sitting down with your friend who gives the best advice during your most trying moments. You’ll finish it renewed, confident, and ready to take on any challenge life throws your way.”

Jo Piazza
International best-selling author of We Are Not Like Them, Charlotte Walsh Likes to Win, The Knockoff and How to Be Married