“One who gains strength by overcoming obstacles possesses the only strength which can overcome adversity.” – Albert Schweitzer

With the close of both national political conventions last week, we now have a clearer picture about the four candidates, a couple of which will take the reigns of arguably the two most powerful posts in the free world at the start of the new year.

And while their policy and personality differences were significantly highlighted last week, what spoke in equal decibel, is the one common bond they share: All four people, men and woman, have overcome striking and at times devastating circumstances, channeling the lessons learned from these struggles to rise to the highest levels of success.

In tribute, PeopleJam has spent the week profiling testaments to strength of character.

You can read more about the four political candidates - and the specific journeys they’ve taken - in a great article by Erin Berisini.

And this week, after successfully launching our self improvement products and services review program, we’ve also profiled numerous excellent reviews on stories of ordinary people overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles, such as Dave Pelzer's riveting autobiography, A Child Called It.

Check them out! Add a review if you’ve read it (which will qualify you for our PeopleJam Sweepstakes), or find the next great self-improvement book you’re going to read this weekend!

And above all, when life gets tough, remember an old, favorite adage: “If it were easy…everybody’d be doing it.”

Matt Edelman, CEO Quote of the Week:

"Challenges are meant to be challenged."