"You're so resilient" (But, what does that mean?!)
Oct 22, 2024
I’ve been thinking a lot lately about resilience.
In fact, I just delivered a keynote on it, which is probably why it's so top of mind.
It’s one of those words we throw around a lot, especially in the business world, but what does it actually mean to be resilient?
We often think resilience is about pushing through or "toughing it out," but in my experience, it’s more about finding your footing —and sometimes, it’s about completely reinventing yourself when life throws you a curveball.
I’ve had my fair share of those curveballs (haven’t we all?), and each time I’ve been knocked down, I’ve had to dig a little deeper to find that strength to get back up.
Whether it was closing my gym or navigating the ups and downs of starting a new business, (or this year's special - the broken leg) one thing that’s become super clear is this:
Resilience isn’t something you’re just born with. It’s like a muscle—you build it through experience, through those hard moments when you feel like giving up but decide to keep going anyway.
I’m not saying it’s easy.
Sometimes the last thing you want to do is "power through." But here’s what I’ve learned: Every time you get back up, even when it feels impossible, you’re teaching yourself how to be stronger for the next challenge. And trust me, there will always be a "next" challenge.
So, how do we actually build resilience?
Here’s what’s helped me over the years (and might help you too):
- Embrace the setbacks: Instead of seeing failure as the end, start looking at it as a lesson. What can you learn? How can you grow from it?
- Take a break when needed: Resilience doesn’t mean running yourself into the ground. Sometimes the best way to bounce back is to rest, reflect, and recharge.
- Lean on your support system: You don’t have to do it all alone. Friends, family, mentors—your people are there for a reason. Use them.
- Celebrate the small wins: Every step forward is progress. Give yourself credit for the little victories, even when they feel insignificant.
- Keep your long-term vision in mind: When things get tough, reconnect with your "why." Why did you start this journey in the first place? What’s the bigger picture?
Resilience is about getting knocked down and rising back up, but it’s also about allowing yourself the space to grow, adapt, and sometimes completely change course.
Next time you find yourself in a tough spot, remember: You’re not just surviving—you’re building that resilience muscle for whatever comes next.
