"Life happens – to all of us. By learning to see more objectively, act more mindfully, and accept events outside our control more calmly, we can lead happier, more successful lives. In this engaging story, Sam knits ancient stoic philosophy together with modern behavioral science to show how we can make better decisions when faced with life’s choices and challenges. A great resource for everyone."

"Uphill starts as a story about one man’s bucket list aspiration to climb Kilimanjaro. Bucket lists are funny - so many people have them, filled with wonderful goals - and yet they languish as life passes us by. The same was true of the protagonist, when unexpectedly, after years of dedicated work, he was suddenly fired. Seizing the opportunity, he hopped on a plane and committed to keeping a careful journal of the experience. But lest the reader expect details on practicalities of the hike, the book instead morphs into a guidebook of wisdom from ancient philosophy, shared by his mountain guide Thomas, and modern behavioral science, from his friend and former boss, Katie. An engaging and enlightening read that provides valuable life lessons for those of us who might not make it to Kilimanjaro."

"The principles evidenced in this excellent story of self-discovery and reflection have been a constant theme in my life. As a university lecturer, corporate consultant, and researcher, I have witnessed the importance of viewing the world objectively, distinguishing between controllable and uncontrollable factors and adhering to primary values. However, these principles are critical for everyone. This book’s lesson, based on ancient wisdom and backed by modern behavioral science, is that we can all benefit from reflecting on our behavior. This is even more critical today, for the sake of our individual and collective well-being and for the future of our planet."

"In this highly engaging read, Sam has clearly articulated how the various aspects of life are shaped in individual compartments of work, family unit – past, present and future generations, traditions, and so on. He highlights how our ecosystem of people, institutions, and events both sustain and challenge one’s existence and how we can build our ability to weather the shocks of life – bringing sustained vibrancy of purpose and enjoyment."

"Modern life is becoming increasingly transactional and dysfunctional. Without a philosophical framework on which to base decisions over time and in different social contexts, people have become increasingly anxious, distrustful and confused. Told in an easily relatable story of loss and recovery, Sivarajan looks to the ancient Stoics to provide such a framework and supports it with modern science. Importantly, Sivarajan recognizes the many social and psychological obstacles to adoption of this framework in the modern world and provides practical tools to deal with these obstacles. In today’s uncertain world, this book will resonate with those looking to do “the right thing” as well as those left feeling anxious, distrustful and confused. Sivarajan’s profoundly optimistic message is that you need not live that way."

"Authentic and smart story telling with life lessons on every page, Sam has organized these lessons in a well thought out way. What impressed me most was the ability to weigh solutions by going down each path before taking the first step. It’s like throwing a rock in the water and understanding all of the ripple effects, and the ripple effects of those ripple effects before choosing a path. You won’t want to miss the latest from Sam!"

"An absorbing narrative, that seamlessly integrates the insights of major philosophical theories into a fascinating travel story. What makes Sam Sivarajan’s text distinctive is that it is firmly grounded in the experience of the bright and the dark moments of contemporary business life, gradually building up a dialectic between realism and idealism, and the ways in which opposing standpoints might actually enrich our understanding of reality, if only we allow ourselves to engage openly and reflectively with the values that inform both the world around us, and within. An intellectually rewarding read."

"Business owners make decisions every day. In this entertaining read, Sam provides actionable tools, rooted in science, essential for anyone looking to make better decisions and achieve better results. Highly recommended!"

"Uphill is an astonishing and enlightening book that invites you to join the exciting adventures of Devin on his personal journey to find a new purpose. Sam manages to translate valuable ancient philosophical wisdom into science-based tools that help us face the challenges of our lives in this day and age. The views of the great thinkers were never so easy and enjoyable to understand and apply!"