Susan David

Susan David is a South African psychologist, author, and speaker, recognized worldwide for her pioneering work on the concept of emotional agility. Her research focuses on how flexible and mindful management of emotions, thoughts, and internal narratives can lead to greater well-being, performance, and meaning in life.

He earned a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Applied Psychology from the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa, and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Melbourne. His rigorous academic training was complemented by postdoctoral research on emotions at Yale University. This academic foundation enabled him to establish a management consulting firm and co-found the Harvard/McLean Coaching Institute, integrating cutting-edge research into corporate practice.

His bestseller *Emotional Agility: Get Unstuck, Embrace Change, and Thrive in Work and Life* became a global benchmark. In it, David argues that the key is not to suppress or ignore difficult emotions, but to approach them with curiosity and compassion. His concept of emotional agility was named the best business management idea of the year by the *Harvard Business Review*.

David proposes a framework of four concepts for achieving emotional agility: Showing Up (expressing emotions with courage), Stepping Out (taking a step back from your thoughts), Walking Your Why (aligning actions with values), and Moving Forward (making small adjustments). His message promotes the idea that separating emotions from one’s identity is crucial for growth and effective decision-making. His legacy is having provided a clear language and method for emotional courage, challenging the myth of toxic positivity.