Resilience is more than just bouncing back from adversity, it’s about navigating the turbulence in our lives with Self Awareness, Discernment, and Agility so that we may thrive even in the face of adversity. The fields of neuroscience and positive psychology have proven that resilience is a skill that can be developed, refined, and strengthened over time.
While the term VUCA was coined in the Cold War era as an acronym for a geopolitical culture that was Volatile, Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous, it’s a timeless term and certainly describes the current geopolitical landscape. By focusing on what matters most to us and what’s in our control, we’ll be better able to come out whole on the other side of this storm… at best even stronger for it; that’s what resilience is all about.
Firstly, we must be self-aware of our stressors and how stress manifests in our bodies: physically, mentally, and emotionally. These early queues act as “rumble strips” alerting us and keeping us from running of the road. Secondly, we must discern how we can best navigate the moment by asking, “What does this moment require of me RIGHT NOW and what options do I have?” Thirdly, we must have mental and emotional agility to meet the moment in a way that is aligned with our values.
While we can’t control what happens to us, we have 100% responsibility for how we CHOOSE to respond, and we must own it.
What Makes a Resilient Person?
Resilient individuals demonstrate several key attributes that help them face challenges head-on, enabling them to flourish while others may wither. A powerful framework for resilience in the workplace comes from a short yet impactful video by Dan Casey, Leadership Capability Expert, who highlights seven attributes of resilience:
- Emotional Intelligence & Perspective – The ability to step back, assess situations objectively, and regulate emotions.
- Strong Social Networks – Leaning on personal and professional support systems to navigate change.
- Optimistic Attitude – Not blind positivity, but a deep-seated belief that challenges can be overcome.
- Clarity & Focus – Maintaining direction and purpose even in uncertain times.
- Internal Locus of Control – Focusing on what is within your power to change rather than external circumstances.
- Embracing Humor – Recognizing that laughter and lightheartedness can be a balm during difficult moments.
- Resourcefulness & Coping Strategies – Utilizing available resources and developing healthy ways to manage stress.
Resilience is Multi-Dimensional
The American Psychological Association defines resilience as a multidimensional concept—one that is mental, emotional, physical, and behavioral. It influences how individuals engage with the world, access resources, and develop coping mechanisms. Most importantly, resilience isn’t something you either have or don’t have. It’s a skill that can be cultivated.
How to Build Resilience in Your Life
In addition to cultivating the seven areas noted by Dan Casey, you can further strengthen your resilience with these evidence-based strategies:
- Develop Self-Awareness – Understand how you respond to stress and identify ways to regulate emotions effectively. What are your triggers? How can you pre-empt or best respond to them so they don’t hijack you?
- Strengthen Your Support System – Build and maintain relationships that provide encouragement and guidance. Don’t give energy to relationships that drain you.
- Reframe Challenges – Shift your mindset to embrace hurdles as opportunities for growth.
- Practice Mindfulness – Engage in meditation, deep breathing, or grounding exercises to stay present. Go out in nature and breathe it in with all your senses.
- Lean into your spirituality – Connect with your core values, your faith, and your belief system. There is great wisdom in the Serenity Prayer, “God grant me the courage to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can change, and the wisdom to know the difference.”
- Be Present – Rumination about the past and worry about the future rob us of the present moment. Be here now; now is all that is certain.
- Take Action – Focus on what is within your control and take small steps toward solutions.
By cultivating these attributes, you’ll literally be altering your brain chemistry, hormonal, and physiological response in a way that creates a virtuous vs downward spiral.
Journal Prompts for Reflection
- Think about a time you faced a challenge. What strengths helped you navigate it?
- How do you typically respond to adversity? What could you do to build more resilience?
- Who in your life serves as a support system during difficult times? How can you strengthen those connections?
- What’s one small change you can make today to cultivate a more resilient mindset?
- What role does humor or optimism play in your ability to manage stress?
Build Resilience for Lasting Success
At Rudder Consulting, we help individuals and organizations cultivate resilience through leadership development, change management, and workplace well-being programs. Strengthening resilience is essential for navigating uncertainty and fostering long-term success.
- Leadership Development – Learn how to foster resilience in yourself and your team.
- Change Management Support – Navigate transitions with confidence and clarity.
- Workplace Well-Being Programs – Build a culture of resilience within your organization.
Ready to strengthen your resilience? Visit Rudder Consulting to explore our services and take the next step toward lasting growth.
