As seen on TODAY!

How we handle life's challenges-from medical crises to broken hearts to career failures-defines us as we face the road ahead.

Each of us knows the absolute joy that a new relationship, or the birth of a child, or fulfilling your heart's desire can bring. But it's the life events that aren't so euphoric that test how we weather those storms.

Jane Seymour learned from her mother that, when your life is tough, the road becomes easier when you help others. In The Road Ahead, she shares inspirational stories from readers around the world who've overcome when the "happily ever after"-isn't. Using a three-step process of

Acceptance

Unconditional forgiveness

Selfless acts of kindness

you can take heart as you face your road ahead.