By Natalie Grigg, Esq., Health & Well-Being Committee Member
 

Aristotle once said, "It is during our darkest moments that we must focus to see the light." 

Thinking about what this means raises the issue of being resilient.  By definition, being resilient entails having the capacity to withstand or recover quickly from difficulties.  It is the process of adapting well in the face of adversity, trauma, tragedy, threats or significant sources of stress.  These sources of stress include, but are not limited to, family/relationship problems, serious health problems, workplace stressors, and financial stressors.  Being resilient means having, or developing, the ability to overcome challenges of all kinds – and be able to "bounce back" stronger, wiser, and more personally powerful.  It involves profound personal growth, helps provide balance in an overstimulating world, and involves behaviors, thoughts and actions anyone can learn and develop.

Being or becoming resilient is like building a muscle – takes time and intentionality.

So how do you become resilient?

1. Handling the daily hurdles:

• Keep things in perspective
• Accept Change
• Learn from the past

2. Start a Gratitude Practice/Journal – Science has proven that a regular gratitude practice actually develops new neurons in the brain and improves mindset.  Start small and build and try go beyond the obvious (i.e. home, family vs. internet is working, flavored coffee)
    
3. Start a Mindfulness Practice – staying present in the moment keeps us from rethinking past events or worrying about future events.  It also keeps us from spiraling in our thoughts. 
    
4. Avoid "thinking traps" such as assuming everything is black and white, expecting the worst outcome, or trying to predict the future
    
5. Create a coping mantra – a mantra is a phrase or saying that you can repeat when you feel overwhelmed, down, or frustrated.  Examples: "I am doing the best I can," "I am healthy," or "Everything is going to work out just as it is supposed to."
    
6. Build Connections:

• Prioritize relationships
• Connect with empathetic and understanding people
• Join a group – faith based; civic, like-minded people

7. Physical Activity
    
8. Proper nutrition
    
9. Technology Breaks
    
10. Setting Boundaries
     
11. Perform acts of kindness such as volunteering or mentoring
     
12. Avoid negative outlets
     
13. Learning a new skill
     
14. Sleep – consistent sleep cycle, create a wind down routine
     
15. Find your purpose – finding meaning in one's environment is an important part of resilience