Resilience: A Skill You Can Build
We have a saying in Ireland: “There’s always one.” It’s the idea that there’s always one person in your life who’s hard work — whether they’re draining, complex, or just plain frustrating. And if you can’t think of who it is in your circle, it’s probably you!
This Irish humour reminds us that life — and relationships — are rarely smooth. But resilience isn’t about avoiding challenges or difficult people. It’s about how we respond, grow, and find strength in the process.
Resilience is a Skill, Not a Trait
Resilience isn’t something you’re born with — it’s something you intentionally build. It often means stepping out of your comfort zone, reframing challenges, and finding your worth within rather than in how others see you.
How to Build Resilience
Here are some small, actionable steps to get started:
- Reframe Challenges as Opportunities: Instead of asking, “Why is this happening?” try asking, “What can I learn from this?”
- Own Your Worth: Reflect on how much you let others’ opinions affect you. Start affirming your value from within.
- Step Into Discomfort: Each day, take one small, brave action — whether it’s speaking up, trying something new, or letting go of control.
- Laugh Through Struggles: Like the Irish saying, sometimes humour is the best way to cope with ‘the one’ in your life.
- Lean on Community: Resilience isn’t built alone. Surround yourself with people who inspire, challenge, and uplift you.
A Thought to Leave You With
Resilience isn’t about avoiding tough times but finding strength and wisdom in the middle of them.
Over the years, I’ve worked alongside people in some of the most challenging circumstances worldwide.
When I asked how they kept going, their answers were profound. It wasn’t about having all the answers or being unshaken. It was about small, intentional actions: finding hope in community, focusing on what they could control, and staying connected to their purpose. This hope, found in the support of others, can be a powerful source of optimism.
Resilience grows in those moments. It makes us stronger, wiser, and more grounded. Whatever season you’re in, you have the power to take small steps, stay intentional, and keep moving forward.
With hope.
