Reclaiming Our Resilient Spirit

Our spirits are taking a beating. The daily barrage of bad news, violence, shrinking resources, global warming, and economic slowdown can put us in a state of frustration and paralysis. Some days, getting out of bed can be a challenge. Within the word “resilience” are actions we can take to reclaim our bounce-back ability. R: Remember to breathe. The ability to calm down is critical in order to take stock and move forward. E: Enlist support of others. Love people and be lovable in return. A supportive family (whether genetic or hand-picked) is what keeps people alive.  The English word wretched comes from the Middle English word wrecche which means “without kin nearby. S: Stay focused. Intentionality lays the groundwork for what we want in our life. See it, say it and claim it. Don’t let external forces cloud your vision. I: Identify your strengths. Energy and good health are two of the most essential ingredients in resiliency. Work on your physical well being first because it is the quickest way to gain control over a world that is uncontrollable. L: Laugh out loud. You’ll be amazed at the looks you get. And you’ll feel better. I: Insist on optimism. Positive mental health comes from the ability to reframe a situation. This is not the Pollyanna or head-in-the-sand avoidance of reality but rather a recall of ways in which you have handled similar situations. E: Extend yourself to others. Self-absorption backfires. It only serves to deepen depression and worry. Going out to serve others lifts the cloud around yourself and allows you to become both blessed and a blessing. N: Never say “never”. The resilient spirit knows that there is always tomorrow. T: Thanks-give it! There is much to be grateful for. © The Resiliency Group.  All rights reserved. You may reprint this article so long as it remains intact with the byline and if all links are made live. Since 1980, professional speaker and Hall of Fame member Eileen McDargh has helped Fortune 100 companies as well as individuals create connections that count and conversations that matter. Her latest book is Gifts from the Mountain-Simple Truths for Life’s Complexities. Her other books include Talk Ain’t Cheap…It’s Priceless and Work for a Living and Still Be Free to Live, one of the first books to address the notion of balance and authentic work.  Find out more about this compelling and effective professional speaker and join her free newsletter by visiting http://www.EileenMcDargh.com.