How to Build Resilience

Resilience is not about ignoring pain or avoiding stress; it is about learning how to bounce back from adversity. It is a psychological muscle that can be strengthened over time with intentional practice and a shift in perspective.

Core Habits of Resilient People

Building resilience is a deeply personal journey, but there are several foundational habits you can cultivate to help you weather life's storms more effectively:

• Accept change as part of living. Certain goals may no longer be attainable as a result of adverse situations. Accepting circumstances that cannot be changed can help you focus on circumstances that you can alter.
• Build strong, positive connections. The pain of trauma and severe stress can lead some people to isolate themselves, but connecting with empathetic, understanding individuals can remind you that you're not alone in the midst of difficulties.
• Develop realistic goals. Do something regularly—even if it seems like a small accomplishment—that enables you to move toward your goals. Instead of focusing on tasks that seem unachievable, ask yourself, "What's one thing I know I can accomplish today that helps me move in the direction I want to go?"
• Take decisive actions. Act on adverse situations as much as you can. Take decisive actions, rather than detaching completely from problems and stresses and wishing they would just go away.
• Nurture a positive view of yourself. Developing confidence in your ability to solve problems and trusting your instincts helps build your mental fortitude. Pay attention to your own needs and feelings.
• Keep things in perspective. Even when facing very painful events, try to consider the stressful situation in a broader context and keep a long-term perspective. Avoid blowing the event out of proportion.
• Maintain a hopeful outlook. An optimistic outlook enables you to expect that good things will happen in your life. Try visualizing what you want, rather than worrying about what you fear.