Resilience is the ability to adapt well in the face of challenge and adversity and bounce back as strong or stronger than before. Being Resilient doesn’t make problems go away, it allows us to see past them, adapt, and find enjoyment in life as we continue moving forward toward our goals. Although our resilient nature is due in part to unmodifiable aspects such as genes, early environments, and life circumstances, there are things we can do to increase resilience. The components for building resilience fall into four basic categories:
Remaining positive
How we feel in large part comes from how we think. Cultivating a positive, balanced, and healthy outlook allows us to see that life is built on ups and downs and not a string of perfect outcomes. Additionally, challenges that come are usually temporary and limited in scope and not permanent and all pervasive. Realizing the temporary nature of our challenges allows us to hope for better times, experience joy, and discover silver-linings along the way.
Finding Purpose
Finding meaning and purpose can be as simple as setting a goal for the day or finding ways to serve and lift others. Having purpose helps us focus on what we can do and change rather than on what we can't. Even in the darkest times we look for opportunities for growth and find a sense of purpose.
Fostering Wellness
Life always goes better when we have a sense of well-being. Taking time to care for our physical and mental health includes getting ample sleep, eating a healthy diet, and exercise regularly. It also includes doing things like journaling, praying, meditating, and finding ways to let go of those things we cannot change.
Building Connections
Building and strengthening relationships with those who care about us, reminds us that we're not alone. Healthy relationships give us people to turn to when we need help and support.
Let's use this unusual time of the Coronavirus pandemic to work on improving resilience.
American Psychological Association https://www.apa.org/topics/resilience
Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/resilience-training/in-depth/resilience/art-20046311