Working From Home (Highly Resilient People)

Here are common traits of highly resilient people — that experts agree can be learned through practice to help you build your resilience:

» Mindfulness: Mindfulness is a state of active, open attention in the present. When you’re mindful, you observe your thoughts and feelings from a distance, without judging them as good or bad. We all react differently to stress and trauma. Being in the presence of the moment without judgment or avoidance takes practice, but it’s one of the best forms of healing and resilience-building.

» Empathy: Empathy helps build our own self-worth when we see ourselves and everyone around us as having value. Another bonus of practicing empathy is the “happy” effect of oxytocin, the hormone that is released when we care for others. Empathy and business effectiveness are not mutually exclusive. Instead, individual, team, and organizational success rely on a compassionate work culture.

» Acceptance: When a problem arises, own what’s happening to you. Resilient people understand that experiencing stress and pain is a part of living that ebbs and flows. As hard as it is in the moment, it’s better to come to terms with it rather than ignore it, repress it, or deny it. Ask the necessary questions to be able to solve the problem. Use critical thinking, reasoning, and problem-solving techniques. Resist the urge to blame others or external forces. Acceptance helps you learn from your mistakes and find meaning in life’s challenges instead of seeing yourself as a victim.

» Internal control: Resilient people believe that they, rather than outside forces, are in control of their own lives. They have a realistic view of the world and can be more proactive in dealing with stressors in their lives, more solution-oriented, and feel a greater sense of control, which brings less stress.

» Optimism: Resilient people see the positives in most situations and believe in their own strength. This can shift how they handle problems from a victim mentality to an empowered one.

» Support: Resilient people tend to be strong, but they know the value of social support and surround themselves with supportive friends and family. Supportive people give you the space to work through your emotions. They know how to listen and when to offer just enough encouragement, without trying to solve all your problems with their advice.

» Sense of humor: People with emotional resilience are able to laugh at life’s difficulties. This trait is a huge asset because it provides a greater perspective and the ability to perceive issues as a challenge, rather than a threat. And, of course, laughter reduces the level of stress hormones and increases the level of health-enhancing hormones, like endorphins.

» Self-care: This idea of taking care of yourself takes into account many things. For some people, it’s rest, reading, journaling, or meditating. For others, it’s working out, listening to music, taking a bath, or relaxing with friends. Self-care is any activity that inspires you, nourishes your soul, helps you recharge your batteries, and fills your cup. Resilient people know what works for them, and they make it a priority in their lives.

Source: Working From Home by Tara Powers, MS, et al.