28 Feb Embracing Resiliency: How to Stay Strong in a Challenging World
By Jackie Sue Griffin and Ashley Pontius
Life can be tough—there’s no way around it. From personal challenges to the chaos of the world around us, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But here’s the good news: you are stronger than you think. Embracing resiliency isn’t just about bouncing back—it’s about grounding yourself, caring for your emotional well-being, and making room for joy even in the hardest seasons. In our latest Fearless Friday conversation, we explored practical ways to nurture resilience. Here are some key takeaways that we can all use moving forward.
Embracing Resiliency Keeps You Centered
When life feels like it’s pulling you in a million directions, resiliency is your anchor. It keeps you from being swept away by stress and allows you to respond with clarity and strength. Think of it as a muscle—the more you practice, the stronger it gets.
Create a Wellness Checklist
Prioritizing self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. A wellness checklist can be a helpful tool to ensure you are consistently meeting your physical, emotional, and mental needs. This could include simple actions like staying hydrated, getting outside for fresh air, practicing gratitude, or setting healthy boundaries. What would be on your checklist?
Emotional Triage: Check in With Yourself
When was the last time you checked in with how you really are feeling? Emotional triage means pausing regularly to acknowledge and process your emotions. Are you holding onto stress, sadness, or fear? Allow yourself the space to feel and release those emotions rather than pushing them aside.
Renew Yourself With Joyful Activities
Resilience grows when we make time for what fills our cup. Listen to your favorite music, spend time with friends, give to others, or immerse yourself in an uplifting podcast. These small, joy-filled moments act as a reset, reminding you that light still exists, even when times are hard.
Prioritize Your Health and Lifelong Learning
Resilience is built on a strong foundation of physical and mental well-being. Take care of your body, nurture your mind, and stay open to growth. Lifelong learning—whether through books, experiences, or community—empowers you to navigate life with wisdom and grace.
Offer Grace—To Yourself and Others
A powerful reminder: people’s reactions often have nothing to do with you and everything to do with their own struggles. When others act out of pain or fear, extend grace instead of taking it personally. And while you’re at it, offer yourself the same compassion on the days when you feel less than perfect.
Shift Your Mindset: Make Room for Good
When you release negativity, you create space for positivity to flow in. It’s not about pretending everything is fine—it’s about choosing to focus on hope, possibilities, and what you can control. What is one negative thought you can let go of today?
Let Go With Love
On that note, sometimes, the most resilient thing you can do is release what no longer serves you—with kindness and compassion. Whether it’s an outdated belief, a toxic relationship, or a heavy burden you’ve carried for too long, letting go allows you to move forward in freedom.
It’s Okay to Sit in Grief
Healing doesn’t come from ignoring pain—it comes from honoring it. Allow yourself to sit in grief when you need to, whether it’s for a loss, a transition, or unspoken heartaches. Holding space for your own emotions (and those of others) is an act of courage.
Find Strength in Prayer
No matter what your spiritual beliefs are, connecting with a higher power can be a profound source of comfort and guidance. When life feels heavy, lean into prayer, meditation, or quiet reflection. You don’t have to carry the weight alone.
You Are Stronger Than You Think
As the saying goes, “God doesn’t give hard things to weak people.” You are more resilient, capable, and courageous than you realize. Whatever you are facing today, trust that you have the strength to endure it—and you are never alone in the journey.
No matter where you are on your journey, know that you have the inner strength to face life’s challenges. Be kind to yourself, offer grace to others, and hold space for your emotions. Every step you take toward resilience makes you stronger and more empowered. You’ve got this.
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