The American Psychological Association defines resilience as the process of adapting well in the face of adversity, trauma, or significant sources of stress such as family and relationship problems, serious health problems or workplace and financial stressors. In other words, “bouncing back” from difficult experiences.
As discussed last week, resilience is not a trait that people either have or do not have. It involves behaviours, thoughts, and actions that can be learned and developed in anyone.
Below we will explore five more strategies and techniques to improve mental resilience.
Look for opportunities for self-discovery.
Sometimes difficulties can result in significant learning and personal growth. Living through a challenging situation can increase our self-confidence and sense of self-worth, strengthen our relationships, and teach us a great deal about ourselves. Many people who have experienced hardship have also reported a heightened appreciation for life and deepened spirituality.
Nurture a positive view of yourself.
Working to develop confidence in yourself can be beneficial in preventing difficulties, as well as building resilience. Having a positive view of yourself is crucial when it comes to problem-solving and trusting your instincts.
Keep things in perspective.
When times get tough, always try to keep a balanced view of your circumstances and avoid blowing things out of proportion. In cultivating resilience, it helps to keep a long-term perspective when facing difficult or painful events.
Maintain a hopeful outlook.
When we focus on what is negative about a situation and remain in a fearful state, we are less likely to find a solution. Try to maintain a hopeful, optimistic outlook, and expect a positive outcome instead of a negative one.
Take care of yourself.
Self-care is an important strategy for building resilience and helps to keep your mind and body healthy so you can deal with difficult situations as they come along. Taking care of yourself means paying attention to your own needs and feelings and engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Regular physical exercise for example is a great form of self-care.
The more you look after yourself, the more you will be able to help others.
