How to increase resilience
Some people seem to have natural resilience, others don't, but developing better resilience can be learned.
The good news is that it is possible to use techniques to increase levels of emotional resilience.
The following are just some of the techniques you should focus on in order to foster your own resilience.
Create positive beliefs
Several studies have shown that self-esteem plays an important role in coping with stress and recovering from difficult events. This will make the person more confident in their own ability to react and deal with the crisis, it's a great way to build resilience for the future.
Find the purpose
In the face of crisis or tragedy, finding a sense of purpose can play an important role in recovery. This may lead you to become involved in your community, cultivate your spirituality, or participate in activities that you feel are meaningful to you.
Be socially strong
Having friendly people around you acts as a protective factor in times of crisis, so it's important to have people you can trust, they will allow you to share your feelings, gain support, receive positive feedback and help come up with solutions to their problems.
Accept the change
Flexibility is an essential part of resilience. By learning to be more adaptable, you will be better equipped to respond when faced with a life crisis. Resilient people often use these events as an opportunity to branch out in new directions. While some people can be overwhelmed by sudden changes, others are able to adapt and thrive.
Be optimist
Very difficult, especially in dark times, but maintaining a hopeful outlook is an important part of resilience. Positive thinking doesn't mean ignoring the problem, it means understanding that difficulties are fleeting and that you have the skills and abilities to combat the challenges you face.
Take care of yourself
When you're under stress it can be all too easy to neglect your own needs. Loss of appetite, skipping exercise and not getting enough sleep are all common reactions to a crisis situation. Don't do this, by taking care of your own needs you can increase your overall health, stamina and be fully ready to face life's challenges.
Problem solving
Being able to find solutions to a problem is important. Whenever you encounter a new challenge, make a short list of some of the possible ways you could solve the problem. Experiment with different strategies and focus on developing a logical way to work through common problems. By practicing your skills, you'll be better prepared to handle when a serious challenge arises.
