What Is Resilience?

 

You may have heard about ‘resilience’ as it’s a buzz word at the moment. What makes some of us able to deal with tough challenges and where others might struggle and become overwhelmed? There is no doubt that workers and families who make FIFO work well are resilient.

 

Resilient people are able to be flexible and adapt well to change. They bounce back from difficulties and feel confident that they can adjust. They are able to see the positive things that come out of the challenges they face.

 

Resilient people focus on the positive things in their lives far more than the negative things that happen. They think in ways that support their health and wellbeing. They ask questions that help them get through tough times.

 

So what are some of the characteristics of people who are resilient?

• Awareness – resilient people are aware of their emotional responses and behaviour and those of others around them. Being aware means you have more choice and control about the situation and ways to tackle challenges.
• Recognise that setbacks are part of life – whilst we cannot always avoid setbacks we do have choices about how to respond.
• Have what is called an internal locus of control – that is believe the actions they take will affect their situation, their ability to cope and their future.
• Have strong problem solving skills (see our earlier blog ‘How to Solve a Problem in 5 Steps’) here.
• Have strong relationships and connections so they are able to talk about their challenges and gain support from family and friends and co workers.
• Identify as a survivor not a victim, which means whilst the situation maybe unavoidable they are able to focus on a positive solution.
• Are able to ask for help. Whilst they maybe resourceful they also have no problem asking for help.

 

Many of these skills can be developed or strengthened.

 

Check out some of our other blogs on this topic like ‘How Managers Can Build Resilient Workers’ here and ’10 Tips to Building Resilient Kids’ here.