Life doesn’t always go to plan, and sooner or later, we all face challenges, setbacks, and moments that test us in ways we never expected. However, what makes the real difference isn’t whether tough times come – it’s how we choose to respond when they do. That’s why resilience matters so much.
Resilience is more than just “bouncing back.” Instead, it’s about finding strength in the middle of challenges, staying grounded when life feels uncertain, and learning how to move forward with purpose. For example, since my diagnosis with Motor Neuron Disease in 2017, I’ve had to discover first-hand what resilience really means – and how it can transform the way we live.
As a result, I’ve learned that resilience isn’t just about surviving; it’s about creating space to thrive. In this blog, we’ll explore practical ways you can grow your own resilience. These are simple strategies you can weave into everyday life – so you can manage stress more effectively, protect your wellbeing, and keep moving toward your goals, no matter what life throws at you.
Choose a Positive Lifestyle
The little everyday habits make such a big difference to how resilient we feel. In fact, they often shape how well we can handle stress before it even builds up.
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Rest well. Your body and mind need time to recharge, so don’t underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep.
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Eat to nourish. Food is fuel – it shapes your energy and mood, and it gives your body what it needs to recover.
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Keep moving. Regular exercise, even gentle, keeps you strong inside and out. For example, a short walk can do wonders for both body and mind.
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Stay hydrated. Water really does help your body (and brain) work at its best, because every system relies on it.
These small choices add up. Not only do they help us get through the day, but they also set us up to thrive in the long run.
Work on Your Mindset
For me, resilience always starts in the mind. That’s because the way we think shapes how we respond to challenges. Here are a few things I’ve learned that make a big difference:
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Look for the opportunity in change. Instead of seeing it as something scary, try asking, “How can this help me grow?”
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Step into the driver’s seat. Life feels so different when you see yourself as an active player, rather than a victim of what’s happening.
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Be your own best mate. Notice that little voice in your head – is it building you up or pulling you down? If not, try reframing it to something more supportive.
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Zoom out. Ask yourself: will this thing that’s gone wrong really matter in a month or a year? Often, it won’t.
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Practise gratitude. Write down a few things each day you’re thankful for – as a result, it shifts your whole perspective.
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Stay present. Even a couple of minutes of mindfulness can bring you back to calm when your head feels busy.
Grow Awareness of Your Inner Resources
One of the biggest parts of resilience is knowing yourself… really knowing yourself. Because when you understand who you are, you can use those strengths to navigate change.
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Be aware of what you bring to the table. Your strengths, talents, even your weaknesses and boundaries – they’re all part of who you are.
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Live by your values. When your actions match what you believe in, life feels steadier and more meaningful.
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Lean on your strengths. Play to what you’re good at – as a result, challenges become easier to manage.
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Keep learning. Every new skill or insight you pick up becomes something you can draw on when life throws a curveball.
Grow Your Awareness of Self
So much of the day we just run on autopilot – in fact, more than half our waking hours! And when we’re on autopilot, it’s easy to miss what’s really going on inside us.
That’s why I like to take little “PIT stops” throughout the day. Just pause and ask yourself:
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What am I feeling?
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Where do I feel it in my body?
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What thoughts are running through my head?
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What do I need right now?
These quick check-ins only take a minute, but they help you step out of autopilot and grow your awareness in the moment. Therefore, that awareness becomes the first step toward resilience.
Know What Gives Your Life Meaning
Resilience feels stronger when you’re clear on what matters most to you. Because when you have purpose, it’s easier to keep moving forward.
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Get clear on your purpose. Ask yourself: what’s truly important to me? What do I want to be remembered for?
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Keep moving towards your goals. Even small steps in the right direction create progress, and as a result, they build a deeper sense of meaning.
Cultivate Relationships
Resilience isn’t something we build alone – the people around us matter. In fact, the right support can completely shift how you handle challenges.
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Choose your circle wisely. Spend time with people who lift you up, support you, and make you feel seen for who you are.
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Be brave enough to ask for help. It’s not weakness – instead, it’s strength to lean on others when you need it.
