Master of Change by Brad Stulberg Summary

Master of Change explores strategies for thriving amid life’s inevitable disruptions, combining modern psychology, ancient philosophy, and neuroscience. Brad Stulberg introduces the “rugged flexibility” framework, teaching readers to embrace change by anchoring themselves in core values while adapting to new circumstances. The book dismantles rigid self-narratives, advocating for a fluid identity that integrates growth and stability.

This book suits individuals navigating career shifts, personal transitions, or organizational changes. It’s particularly valuable for leaders, coaches, and anyone seeking resilience strategies. Stulberg’s blend of research and actionable advice resonates with readers interested in self-improvement, psychology, or philosophy.

Yes—it offers fresh perspectives on change management with practical tools like value-driven decision-making and stress-response techniques. While some critics note overlaps with common self-help themes, its synthesis of science and stoic wisdom provides a unique roadmap for sustainable adaptability.

Rugged flexibility combines resilience (“ruggedness”) with adaptability (“flexibility”). Stulberg argues that thriving during upheaval requires holding core values steady while adjusting behaviors. For example, a laid-off worker might maintain their integrity (ruggedness) while pivoting to a new industry (flexibility).

The book challenges static self-perceptions, advocating for a “fluid identity” that evolves with circumstances. Stulberg suggests viewing identity as a verb (e.g., “I adapt”) rather than a noun, reducing friction during life changes like parenthood or career shifts.

Core values act as stabilizers during chaos. Stulberg advises identifying 3-5 non-negotiable principles (e.g., authenticity, growth) to guide decisions when facing uncertainty. These values become portable anchors, whether navigating divorce or a corporate merger.

Yes. Key techniques include:

• The ODR Cycle (Order → Disorder → Reorder) to reframe setbacks as growth opportunities
• Response Rituals (pausing before reacting to stressors)
• Values Journaling to reinforce behavioral alignment

While Peak Performance focused on sustainable success and The Passion Paradox on balanced ambition, Master of Change synthesizes these themes into a system for lifelong adaptability. It incorporates newer research on neuroplasticity and post-traumatic growth.

Some readers find the later chapters on actionable steps less original compared to the book’s philosophical foundations. Critics also note that the “rugged flexibility” model, while useful, overlaps with existing resilience frameworks.

Absolutely. Stulberg’s strategies help teams maintain cohesion during restructuring by focusing on shared values. Examples include using the ODR Cycle to normalize transition phases and designing “flexibility rituals” for remote/hybrid work challenges.

“The path to mastery is not denial, but navigation” encapsulates Stulberg’s thesis. This reminds readers that avoiding change is futile—true empowerment comes from skillfully steering through it.

The book advises applying rugged flexibility to relationships by committing to mutual respect (ruggedness) while adapting communication styles (flexibility). Stulberg uses examples like renegotiating roles after having children or maintaining connections during geographic moves.

Stulberg’s website offers free reflection templates and exercises, while his Growth Equation platform provides courses on implementing the book’s principles. The YouTube review by “Obsidian University” also shares a downloadable mind map of key concepts.