The Power of Resilience: How to Cultivate Your Inner Strength
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Understanding Resilience
Resilience refers to the capacity to recover from adversity with relative ease or over time. While some individuals naturally exhibit more resilience, the encouraging news is that everyone can enhance their resilience.
I strive to adopt a growth mindset instead of a fixed one, which I believe has significantly aided me in developing resilience in my life. Additionally, having a clear vision of my aspirations allows me to maintain perspective when faced with life's inevitable setbacks. I remind myself that everything is temporary, which helps prevent me from spiraling into catastrophizing.
“It always seems impossible until it’s done.” – Nelson Mandela
Practicing mindfulness has proven to be beneficial for me. When I dwell on the future, anxiety often follows; however, refocusing on the present task at hand allows me to feel secure and clears my mind. Each time I surmount a challenge, learn something new, or recover from a setback, I experience a sense of achievement.
How to Cultivate Resilience
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of stress—both physical and mental—is essential. Take a moment to observe your coping mechanisms when stress arises. Do you overindulge in food or alcohol? Do you binge-watch television or shop excessively? Consider small adjustments you can make for healthier coping strategies. This might include opting for nutritious meals, engaging in physical activity, or staying hydrated. Prepare a list of these alternatives.
Engage with supportive individuals around you.
Utilize positive self-talk and affirmations, such as “I am stronger than I realize” or “This too shall pass.”
Remind yourself that challenges are temporary.
Prioritize self-care by ensuring adequate sleep, nutrition, and enjoyment of activities—remember, having fun is vital to life.
Establish a vision of your goals, both short-term and long-term.
Practice kindness and express gratitude daily.
“Only those who dare to fail greatly can ever achieve greatly.” – Robert F. Kennedy
Resilience equips me to navigate life's demands more effectively. I am better prepared to manage interpersonal conflicts, resolve workplace issues, and regulate my emotions.
Some of my preferred self-soothing activities during tough times include:
- Enjoying an Epson salt aromatherapy bath
- Lighting scented candles
- Listening to calming music
- Spending time with my dogs
- Reciting positive affirmations
- Taking walks, especially in nature
- Practicing yoga
- Hugging loved ones
Recognizing my strengths serves as a boost to my self-esteem, particularly during low moments. Simple acts like journaling my talents remind me not to dwell too heavily on setbacks. Additionally, listing things I am grateful for can serve as a positive reminder when I need to uplift my mood.
“During difficult times, an essential step toward resilience is expressing your feelings healthily. You can’t eliminate feelings, but you can learn to navigate through them.” – Al Siebert
Improving emotional intelligence is also crucial for enhancing resilience. Individuals with higher emotional intelligence tend to have better relationships and greater empathy. A self-aware and empathetic person generally possesses the skills needed to recover from setbacks, seek support, and offer forgiveness when necessary.
I hope these suggestions help you bolster your resilience and enable you to recover from challenging periods. Our purpose is not merely to endure life but to thrive, utilizing every tool at our disposal.
This video, "How to Build Resilience as Your Superpower" by Denise Mai, explores the concept of resilience as a vital strength. Watch to learn effective strategies that can empower you to cultivate resilience in your own life.
In "The Superpower of Resilience," Sule Kutlay Gandur highlights how resilience can transform challenges into opportunities for growth.
As you reflect on the insights shared, consider this final question: What motivates you to pursue resilience?
References:
- Psychology Today
- Daniel Goleman, Emotional Intelligence
I am Libby Shively McAvoy, a Personal Development and Relationship Coach with a focus on Emotional Intelligence. Having overcome both physical and emotional abuse, I firmly believe in the power of EQ to foster empathy, enhance communication, and raise awareness, ultimately reducing violence and bullying.
Thank you for reading. I welcome your comments on personal strategies for overcoming life's challenges. Feel free to join the Medium Partner Program for unlimited articles.
Light and Love,
Libby