3 Traits to Build Resilience

Resilience is a combination of practices to overcome anything in your way. Let’s take a closer look at three of these traits.

Gillian’s indepth knowledge of diseases impressed everyone she countered. Her secret wasn’t the knowledge though. She approached every situation with every project through the lens of each person at the table. Every project Gillian managed and coordinated came across people with various perspectives and roles.

-A donor wants to know their funds are being used appropriately.

-The academic wants a publication based on the research

-The policymaker simplifies what the research says and why it is important.

-The head of their organizations wants to make sure they appear effectively and don’t lose funding.

Most people look at situations that only affect their direct environment, relationships, career. They fail to see that multiple perspectives are in play. Anytime a situation gets you all revved up, look at the people from the aspect of an observer. This allows you to see a situation from every angle. As the saying goes, theirs your truth, theirs and the reality that’s somewhere in the middle.

Trait #1: Power of Perspective.

As life has changed considerably for the world with COVID19, our everyday lives have fallen off track. Suddenly being at home all the time seems as though the lion is stuck in a cage at the zoo instead of roaming the great plains in search of its next meal. Soon, being caged leads to feelings of resentment, bitterness, and even anger. Then, suddenly you feel as if there’s nothing you can do and remain completely reserved in the caged lifestyle.

Yet, there’s another way to look at this. While being home more often is less desirable, you take advantage of this. Suddenly, you’re cleaning out closets of clothes and stuff you no longer want or use. Yeah for a clutter free environment. Those house projects finally get done and lead to a renewed sense of vigor that makes your house inviting to be in.

Only seeing the obstacles with an unwillingness to change only leads to a caged lifestyle. When you see the opportunity instead of the obstacle, you have a growth mindset.

Trait #2: See the opportunity instead of the obstacle.

Ever feel that you mind races all over the place? Tasks to follow-up on. People to call. The always, what if scenario plays repeatedly. This mind chatter gets in the way of a clear, focus directive. This ultimately distracts you from what’s truly important. Ever had one of those days when you never got out that one follow-up email? We’ve all been there yet recognize it shouldn’t happen either.

The antidote to all of this is getting centered. Whether it’s a walk outside, a meditation or prayer, the idea is to let go and breathe again. Reconnect with yourself (or higher power).

Trait #3. Get centered

Resilience is a daily practice. Most of all it’s a choice to live a growth mindset and not a victim mentality.

Wishing you an abundant, joyful and prosperous day!