When the going gets tough, resilience is a valuable tool for keeping your stress in check – no matter what you’re dealing with. Developing this skill can help you to better handle challenging circumstances and keep calm under pressure.
In a time of disorder and strife, many around the world are finding themselves beset with crisis after crisis. The effects of this pandemic have been wide-reaching; whole economies shaken while natural disasters continue to ravage numerous regions simultaneously. It is easy to lose hope amid such calamity – but beyond all that we must remember those who are confronted by personal suffering at an individual level: illness in loved ones, job loss or insecurity and even violence against individuals within their communities. Now more than ever it’s essential for us to band together as a global community despite our differences so that every person may be provided support during these extraordinary times.
Resilience is a powerful ability that enables us to bravely face the inevitable struggles, transitions and distress in life. It can help equip you with the necessary tools for navigating difficult moments, adapting to change and coping with tragedy. By creating resilience we are better equipped to manage every twist and turn of our journey through life’s unpredictable roads ahead.
Resilience takes courage and dedication to cultivate. It is not an overnight fix, but rather a life-long journey of developing sensitivity for emotional discomfort and strength in tough times – empowering us all with the resilience needed to thrive!
Strategies for Developing Strength During Challenging Times
1. Embrace what is given.
All of us have different reactions to challenging events, and some may resort to avoidance as a self-preservation tactic. Rather than accepting the severity of an issue, people can deny its reality or underestimate it – a coping mechanism in times of hardship.
Though rejection can provide us with various benefits, it is important to remind ourselves of the ways in which denial has a tendency to prolong suffering. When we deny reality and become unable or unwilling to adapt our behaviour for unique situations, we find ourselves impeded from making sound decisions while simultaneously hindering necessary healing processes.
- Accept the Situation. Reflecting on your past achievements can help you embrace change and anticipate potential challenges. Allowing yourself to consider how similar previous scenarios have been successfully handled will give you the confidence and motivation needed to tackle new obstacles in your path.
To make progress in your job search, focus on the areas that are within your power rather than fixating over uncontrollable ones. Make a conscious effort to invest time and energy into pinpointing potential opportunities instead of waiting for them to come knocking at your door. Additionally, show up as an emotional champion if someone important is going through challenging times; although it may be difficult to relinquish control from such situations – by doing so you can offer maximum empathy and support.
- Don’t repress your emotions. Don’t pretend to be unscathed by life’s tumultuousness – it won’t do you any good. Acknowledge and accept the emotions brought about by change, as this will help diminish your feelings of strain.
With every passing day, you can make tangible progress in overcoming your emotional turmoil. Though it may seem overwhelming now, this hard-won growth will lead to a brighter future free from the pains of yesterday.
- Grieve your losses. In times of difficulty, acknowledging your losses and taking the time to mourn is essential for healing. It can be uncomfortable – particularly when a loved one has passed or you’ve experienced job loss – but this first step towards recovery allows us to move forward with resilience and hope.
2. Connect with others.
During difficult times, reaching out to family and friends can be extremely beneficial. Connecting with those close to you will help lift your spirits as well as provide clarity in a chaotic world. Don’t struggle alone; instead, draw on the supportive network within your circle for resilience when needed most.
Those you turn to don’t have to be experts in your matters. What’s important is that they listen without judgment and offer solace through the simple act of connecting with another person. Be it a smile, hug or engaging conversation about anything under the sun – these moments can help lift spirits and make an impactful difference on your outlook.
3. Make investments in your own wellness.
Difficult times are not just mentally and emotionally taxing – they can wreak havoc on the body, too. Prolonged stress has been linked to a number of serious physical health issues such as weakened immunity or heart attack/stroke risks, ultimately leading to burnout: an intense state of fatigue caused by sustained strain.
Life can take a toll, but sticking to good habits and maintaining consistent daily routines will help you stay resilient. Winding down before bedtime with calming activities is essential for getting quality rest. Plus, eating healthy not only boosts your physical health – it helps fortify other aspects of life by providing steady energy and aiding cognition so that no obstacle feels insurmountable!
5. Discover purpose and significance.
Dreadful news can be frightening and making it feel like the world is dragging you down. We urge to remind everyone regardless of their personal situation, your experiences do not have to define who you are as a person. You don’t need difficulty or worry in order for life to have meaning; find activities that give passion and purpose into living happily!
6. Stay driven and inspired.
To survive tough times, you need to have perseverance and endurance. Even though these hard periods won’t last forever, pushing through them is essential. You should stay motivated and find the right strategies to keep going when life brings adversity.
Have sympathy for yourself and be generous with your emotions when dealing with change. Everyone deals differently, so don’t criticize how you handle a struggle – remember that resilience is an important part of self-compassion.
Final Considerations
Resilience is a vital trait to have in order to succeed even amidst adversity. Rather than shying away from difficult times, those resilient individuals meet their challenges head-on and take full advantage of growth opportunities they bring. They understand the importance of not only learning from mistakes but also seeking help when needed – all paving the way for continued progress towards success.
David Alssema is a Body Language Expert and Motivational Speaker. As a performer in the personal development industry in Australia he has introduced and created new ways to inspire, motivate and develop individuals.
David Alssema started his training career with companies such as Telstra and Optus Communications, and then developed Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) within workplace training as principal of Paramount Training & Development.
As an author/media consultant on body language and professional development David has influenced workplaces across Australia. He contributes to Media such as The West Australian, ABC Radio, Australian Magazines and other Australia Media Sources.