Do you have resilience?
In the world today, we are confronted with challenges which seem formidable and daunting. How do we maintain a sense of balance when the world seems so out of balance? The answer is resilience.
Recently while listening to one of my favorite radio shows, I heard an amazing interview regarding resilience. The psychologist was explaining how some people can overcome any obstacle while others succumb to it. It intrigued me and I wondered, what makes us resilient? How can we maintain a sense of positivity within a world surrounded by negativity? And, even more interesting, can developing a healthy “resilience” lead to a happier and better quality of life?
First, let’s define resilience:
re·sil·ience
/rəˈzilēəns/
noun
- 1.the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness:
- 2.the ability of a substance or object to spring back into shape
The 4 Pillars of resilience:
Purpose-
What is your purpose in life right now? Why are you waking up each day and getting out of bed? What dreams do you want to accomplish? Many patients find this question to be quite challenging especially after the kids have left for college and your “career’ as a full-time mother seems to have come to an abrupt stop and the empty nest syndrome is creeping in.
I encourage you to take some time and write down some of their thoughts and fears surrounding this question. Be patient and gentle with yourself. What might have been your purpose in the past may no longer serve you. The time is now to start finding your purpose.
Adaptability-
When the universe threw you a curve ball, how did you react? Did you face the challenge straight on or did you retreat to the other direction? When I received my breast cancer diagnosis in 2018, I felt like I was hit by a mac truck. Yet, in the end, I needed to accept this fact and do whatever it took to get my health back and reduce my stress levels. I found ways to be more flexible and less rigid with my life. Now when a curve ball is thrown my way, I stop, breathe and react in positive and constructive way .
Think about the past 2 years with COVID? How have you adapted?
Connection-
Many studies have shown the power that lies within our social connections. They are critical for a healthy lifestyle, a happier outlook on life and better cognitive function. Yes, these connections can reduce your risk for dementia. Think about your social connections- your faith, your family, your
friends, etc. and list them on a sheet of paper. Remind yourself each day how grateful you are for these wonderful people in your life.
How can you create new connections over the next few weeks?
Hope
Without hope there is little for us to hang onto. Hope is huge especially in the context of our emotional and physical health. A recent patient of mine consulted with me about a serious health issue that demanded our immediate attention. We developed a detailed plan and followed through with it- it was not an easy road by any means, but one that was well worth it. Now she is doing incredibly well and thanked me profusely for helping her find her way back to health and wellness.
She said, “I knew all along you could help me. It’s because it’s in your name. See, there’s HOPE in HOPPE,” as she scrolled the letters on my whiteboard. I said, “Oh my gosh, that is amazing – I never thought of my last name like that!”
I believe it is my mission to give hope to my patients –to open up their minds to new possibilities, and find the courage to make changes no matter what potential obstacles may lie in their way.
What are you hopeful about in your life?
Remember that even in the worst of times, we can always choose resilience knowing that the sun will rise again and we will be able to face the challenges that confront us.
To become more resilient and live your best life at 40, 50, 60 and beyond, please check-out my Badass Transformation Course!
https://amazing-over-40-program.teachable.com/p/being-badass-over-40-choose-amazing
- In health and happiness
