Have you felt so broken that you don’t know how to put yourself back together? I had and believed me, I felt this more than once through my life. However, during these difficult times I have to say that God, doctors, family and friends (supporting group) had help me to put the pieces back together, getting my inner strength back and helping me to grow through these difficult times. This is how I learned more about “resiliency” and seeking professional help when needed.
What is resiliency? The Oxford dictionary defines it as “The capacity to withstand or to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness”. When it comes to how long it took me to recover from life situations, I will tell you that it depends. Sometimes I recover quickly, others take longer, and some I’m continuing working on it. What I learned is that this is a skill that can be cultivated and practiced. Building resilience can be very rewarding and empowering. Here are some ways it can be cultivated resilience:
- Develop a positive mindset: Although it can be very difficult (especially if you come from an environment that negative mindsets run) try to focus on what you can control and maintain an optimistic outlook. When you catch yourself thinking negatively, question the validity of those thoughts and replace them with more positive or realistic alternatives.
- Connect with People: Surround yourself with supportive friends, family, and colleagues. Look for supporting groups with similar interests or going through similar situations.
- Practice self-care: This is easier said than done… but ty to prioritize your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Exercise regularly, eat healthily, get enough sleep, and engage in activities that bring you joy.
- Set realistic goals: Break down your long-term goals into smaller, manageable steps. Celebrate your progress and stay motivated. Also, remember to take one step at a time. It’s better to have a little than no progress.
- Learn from experience: Remember past challenges and discover the skills and strategies that helped you conquer them. Apply these lessons to tackle future difficulties.
- Stay flexible: Embrace change and new circumstances. Welcome uncertainty as a chance for growth and learning.
- Practice mindfulness and gratitude: Engage in mindfulness techniques such as mindful breathing, guided meditation, mindful observation, or journaling. These practices can help us stay grounded and can help reduce stress.
- Seek professional help if needed: If you're struggling to cope with challenges, consider speaking with a doctor, therapist or counselor. They can provide valuable guidance and support.
Furthermore, the American Psychological Association (APA) explains “Resilience is the process and outcome of successfully adapting to difficult or challenging life experiences, especially through mental, emotional, and behavioral flexibility and adjustment to external and internal demands.”. Also, adds that “Psychological research demonstrates that the resources and skills associated with resilience can be cultivated and practiced.”.
For more information, tips to build skills, and resources we recommend you visit: www.apa.org and search for “resilience” and/or “resiliency”. There are lots of available information that may assist you and even can help you find a licensed psychologist in your area using the APA Psychologist Locator (use: https://locator.apa.org).
Remember, resilience is a skill that can be developed over time. Be patient with yourself and keep working on it.