Have you ever faced a difficult situation? All of us have been tested on our emotional resiliency. You may feel like giving up at times.
How do people who are the most resilient find the strength to continue? Steven Southwick, Dennis Charney and others have been studying resilient people for more than 20 years. They interviewed Vietnam POWs, Special Forces Instructors and civilians that had experienced terrible things like medical problems, trauma and abuse.
Ten Ways to Improve Mental Health by Developing Resilience
1. Find your purpose
Finding purpose will help you to find meaning in your life’s challenges. 3 Rather than being discouraged by past problems, with a purpose defined, you will be more motivated.
Some examples of uses include:
- Building a system of support for loved ones
- Give a voice to social movements
- Healthy lifestyle
- Learn about other cultures
- Making music or art
- Serving your community
In the face of emotional hardship–such as the death of a loved one or the end of a relationship–finding a sense of purpose can be especially important in your recovery. It could be as simple as getting involved in your local community, developing your spirituality or taking part in activities you find meaningful.
2. Build a Strong Social Network
You should have friends you can trust. It is important to have supportive, caring people in your life. This will protect you during difficult times. Talking to a loved one or friend about your situation won’t solve your problems, but it will allow you to express your feelings, receive support, receive positive comments, and find possible solutions. 5
3. Improve your problem-solving skills
Make a list of possible solutions for any new challenges you face.
Try out different approaches and develop a logical approach to solving common problems. Regularly practicing your skills will help you to be more prepared for a difficult situation.
4. Learn Optimism
Optimistic people who are resilient are resilient. Resilient people are optimistic. Resilient people believe that bad situations are temporary, and they can improve. They have hope for the future. If you are feeling down after a setback, try to find a different way of looking at the situation. This will change your mood.
5. How to manage strong feelings
It is natural to feel negative emotions and thoughts when we are faced with adversity. We may also feel frustrated, angry, confused, helpless, and insecure. It is important to control these emotions so that they do not overwhelm you. Do not let your emotions stop you from dealing with situations effectively. Take a deep breath and take a short break before you say or do anything.
6. Develop Healthy Self-Esteem
Confidence and a positive self-image help you to manage difficult situations and gain more control over your life. Recognise your accomplishments and strengths by thinking about them. Your strengths can be recalled by recalling your achievements.
7. Maintain Physical Fitness
Southwick and Charney found that people who were resilient had good habits of exercise that kept both their body and mind strong.
8. As you experience stress, be aware of your thoughts, feelings, and body sensations. You can identify your strengths as well as weaknesses. Increase your self-awareness through mindfulness practices such as meditation or deep breathing.
9. You can improve your thinking by using your cognitive agility. Try a different process the next time that you discover one method isn’t effective. This method might be the most effective.
10. Focus on your purpose. Reminding yourself what you are trying to accomplish and why you do it can motivate you to work towards your goals. Consider and your values. You can go on a self-discovery journey to discover what makes your life worthwhile.
Resilience: A lifetime journey
You will be tested in your efforts to develop a resilient mentality. It is important to keep working on building resilience. You’ll face new challenges throughout your life that will test your resilience.
You can still do it. You can build resilience in the face of uncertainty and reap its benefits. Focus on your Mental Health, take time to rest and stay open to learning new things.
As you overcome obstacles, your resilient mindset will support and empower you.
Find someone to support you in developing a resilient mindset. Our coaches at BetterUp can offer guidance and accountability to help you achieve your goals.
