Resilience, in its finest form, is like wearing armour with our feet firmly planted, ready to do battle with the season we’re in.
When looking at the 5 pillars of resilience or what we as individuals can do to build resilience, these characteristics are very internal facing. They are: self-awareness, mindfulness, self-care, positive relationships & purpose. By equipping ourselves with these types of weapons and armour we will be better equipped to be resilient and remain resilient. I am guilty here of lacking in self-care… I tend to always focus on doing, rather than taking time out to just relax. You could say I’m good at burning myself out. I get bored when it’s quiet – can anyone relate to that? With time I am slowly learning to stop and take care of myself.
What area do you need to work on to increase your resilience?
Another way to look at resilience or the qualities that work together to form resilience is known in psychology as the 7 C’s:
- Confidence
- Competence
- Connection
- Contribution
- Character
- Coping and
- Control
Without some measure of these in our repertoire, we are not going to thrive in terms of resilience as well as we could. These skills can be learnt over time, and do take practice. With that said, we have added some practical ideas for ways to build resilience in yourself, your family and your home life.
Building Social Resilience:
- Learn to communicate effectively
- Learn to resolve conflict
- Be present
- Listen to one another
- Care for one another
- Look beyond yourself
- Put yourself in others shoes
- Learn to appreciate those around you and;
- Use humor where appropriate
Building Physical Resilience:
- Exercise
- Participate in a sport or activity that stretches your fitness
- Engage in activities that you enjoy and find relaxing
Building Mental Resilience:
- Do not isolate yourself – stay connected to friends and family – those around you – even if you are physically isolated, do not disconnect from friends and family.
- Ask for help when you need it
- Be consciously flexible towards situations
- Ask: What is your purpose and how can you fulfil this starting with everyday tasks
- Learn new things – find things you are interested in and go through the learning process.
Building Emotional Resilience:
- Practice self-care – be kind to yourself
- Learn to manage strong feelings
- Be self-confident,
- Be able to see the big picture
- Pay attention to your own needs and feelings.
Try some of these ideas this week and see how you go. Building resilience takes time and thought. It will also bring a greater capacity to see the world as a better place, and guide your leadership to a more positive mindset.
Homes of Victory 