Suffering is part of the human experience. Sometimes, in our struggles, we develop unhealthy ways of coping with disappointments and tragedies. These practical, science-backed tips can help you with practicing resilience in daily life for when, not if, life gets difficult.
Change the Narrative
When we face hard times or trauma, we often replay them in our minds, leading to rumination and fresh waves of pain. Writing expressively about your thoughts and feelings can help. Research shows that writing 4-5 days a week leads to better health, increased happiness, and lower rates of depression. Try this: list an upsetting experience and then three positives about it. This practice can reduce pessimism and prevent depression. While we can’t change events, we can change our reactions and perspectives.
Overcoming the Fears That Hold You Back
Fear can prevent us from living fully. The first step to overcoming fear is admitting what scares you. Naming your fears gives you some control over them. For instance, I once feared flying due to a turbulent first flight. By learning about air travel and talking to frequent flyers, I overcame this fear. I chose to face it, even booking my first international flight. Now, I enjoy flying and no longer feel scared.
Work on Your Problem-Solving Skills
Improving your problem-solving skills is key to building resilience. Here are some tips:
- Build Strong Connections: Cultivate supportive relationships.
- Practice Healthy Risk-Taking: Step out of your comfort zone.
- Embrace Mistakes: View them as learning opportunities.
- Adopt a Growth Mindset: Believe in your ability to grow and improve through effort.
By incorporating these practices into your life, you can build resilience and better navigate life’s challenges. Remember, resilience is about learning to grow through suffering, not avoiding it.
