He is driving me crazy! Why is she acting this way? I just can’t deal what that person anymore! How do you handle a student, coworker, or family member whose rude, withdrawn, or challenging behavior leaves you feeling hurt, frustrated, or even angry? Before you blow up or walk away, education leader Allyson Apsey suggests gaining a little perspective into the motivation behind that behavior. In Through the Lens of Serendipity , Allyson examines how our basic needs motivate all behavior. Through personal, relatable stories, Allyson shares practical ideas for responding to and connecting with people in ways that empower them to meet their needs in a healthy, positive manner. You also learn what it means to HANDLE yourself and others with care—with the ultimate goal of bringing out the best in everyone. As you read Through the Lens of Serendipity you’ll be equipped to. . . Better understand yourself and the people around you. - Look past the surface to find the heart of someone’s story. - Seek out the good in others—even those that frustrate you most. - Understand the long-term impact of childhood trauma. - Respond to others’ needs with compassion and hope. “Through the Lens of Serendipity is an eclectic blend of inspiration, research, and practical strategies that will help you be a more caring and consistent version of your best self.” —Brad Gustafson, national distinguished principal and author of Reclaiming Our Calling “If you are looking for a book that will make you and those around you better and make the world a better place, this is a great read.” —George Couros, author of Innovator’s Mindset “This book will have you intentionally pausing and building empathy for people you see every single day.” —Ben Gilpin, Warner Elementary principal, Western School District, Michigan "Allyson Apsey has a gift for storytelling. Through her stories, you learn about yourself and others in ways that you weren't expecting. Her stories are relatable in that you feel yourself in them even if you aren't a character. You feel compassion for the people Allyson has compassion for. You feel frustration for the tension in their lives. While trauma may be lurking behind each story, the real focus of this book is the people who are who they are because of the trauma they have experienced. And guess what? Whether we have experienced trauma or not, focusing on people first and foremost is the best thing we can do in any situation. Allyson brings that point home again and again throughout the book and inspires you to do the same."--Jethro Jones, transformative principal " Through the Lens of Serendipity is an eclectic blend of inspiration, research, and practical strategies that will help you be a more caring and consistent version of your best self. Allyson Apsey uses stories and a plethora of practical strategies empowering readers to get a handle on hope. The secret to living a truly happy life and helping others do the same has never been closer!"--Brad Gustafson, national distinguished principal and author of Reclaiming Our Calling "Allyson emphasizes the importance of taking care of ourselves so that we can better understand and serve others. She encourages to see past our surface level interactions and see deep into each individual we encounter and find ways to help them grow in a side-by-side journey. If you are looking for a book that will make you and those around you better and make the world a better place, this is a great read."--George Couros, author of Innovator's Mindset "Allyson's new book, Through the Lens of Serendipity , is chock-full of important reminders and messages that are beautifully woven throughout her personal stories as well as research she shares about anger, hope, trauma, and vulnerability. Reading this book will transport you to a reflective place guided by Allyson's questions, where her words will support you as you do the powerful work of looking in and looking forward. I highly recommend Through the Lens of Serendipity for anyone wanting to lead a positive, productive life of self-acceptance as well servanthood for others."-Jennifer Hogan, Educator, Blogger and Speaker "In her latest book, Through the Lens of Serendipity , Allyson Apsey shines a light on some of the courageous and empathetic ways we can support and uplift one another in school situations, at home, and even in an office environment. Apsey uses the power of story, personal examples, research, and fun anecdotes which made her first book, The Path to Serendipity , so memorable. If you are looking for strategies to support students or colleagues experiencing trauma in varying degrees, you will surely benefit from this book."--Jennifer Casa-Todd, teacher-librarian and author of Social LEADia Allyson Apsey has been an educator for over twenty years; a school leader for fifteen of those years. She is passionate about students and staff, and leads others through their strengths. She tries to be transparent, vulnera