Resilience is an important soft skill that allows individuals to recover quickly from challenges and persist in the face of obstacles. According to Wharton psychologist Adam Grant, being mentally resilient can help individuals take smarter risks, beat burnout at work, and live a happier life. Without resilience, individuals may become stuck on their problems and fall into a negative mental state. It takes time to build resilience, but focusing on wellness, healthy thinking, and connection with others can help strengthen adaptability and mental flexibility, according to the American Psychological Association.
One habit that can help individuals become highly resilient is the tendency to “tend and befriend” in response to stress. Instead of avoiding or shutting down in stressful situations, seeking social connections can help individuals learn from and navigate life’s challenges. Activities such as scheduling chats with friends or family, joining a support group to discuss problems, and giving someone a hug can help cultivate this response. By reaching out to others during times of stress, individuals can boost their mood and build resilience.
Taking a digital break can also help individuals build resilience by allowing them to clear their heads and make meaningful, in-person connections. University of Pennsylvania humanities professor Justin McDaniel, who lived like a monk for almost a year, found that limiting digital use can help individuals strengthen their resilience. McDaniel encourages taking breaks from social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook in order to increase availability for in-person connection. By reducing digital distractions, individuals can focus on building meaningful relationships and strengthening their resilience.
Engaging in acts of service, such as volunteering, can also help individuals build mental resilience and find community. The Mayo Clinic notes that reflecting on these experiences can show the impact of one’s work and help maintain motivation. Executive coach Adam Grant suggests keeping a journal of contributions to others in order to boost resilience. In a study conducted with two groups of employees, Grant found that focusing on contributions given to other people, rather than contributions received, was more effective in boosting resilience. By journaling about ways in which they have helped others, individuals can increase their resilience and satisfaction with their work.
In conclusion, resilience is an essential skill that can help individuals recover quickly from challenges and persist in the face of obstacles. Building resilience takes time, but fostering wellness, healthy thinking, and connection with others can help strengthen adaptability and mental flexibility. By cultivating habits such as “tend and befriend” in response to stress, taking digital breaks, and engaging in acts of service for others, individuals can increase their resilience and lead a happier life. Reflecting on contributions to others and focusing on gratitude can also help boost resilience and satisfaction. By practicing these habits, individuals can develop a strong sense of resilience and navigate life’s challenges more effectively.
