Learning how to overcome setbacks, adapt to changing circumstances, and perform well under pressure are valuable skills to learn and have. These skills can be summarized into one trait: resiliency. Becoming more resilient can help you have a more optimistic outlook while developing and maintaining positive relationships. Here are 12 tips to help you build your resilience.

  1. Be flexible. With life events constantly changing, we have to be ready to accept changes and roll with the punches. When we become fixated on the idea of how things should be, that’s when we are often left disappointed or frustrated. Try to plan for sudden changes to occur, and trust that things will still turn out okay.
  2. Learn lessons. It can be frustrating when things don’t go the way you plan, or the result isn’t quite what you hoped for. Look at these moments as an opportunity to learn a lesson. What could be done differently? How can you use this experience to help yourself in the future?
  3. Nurture relationships. The people you surround yourself with can have a huge impact on how you get through various scenarios. Surround yourself with people you can lean on for support during hard times. Care for these relationships by being there for others during times of difficulty.
  4. Release tension. Don’t be afraid to express feelings. Holding them in creates a ticking time bomb. Find a way to let your feelings out, whether through journaling, drawing, meditating, or talking with a friend or counselor.
  5. Practice healthy habits. One best things you can do to help yourself during times of stress is to take care of your body. Get your body moving, eat foods that energize and nourish you, and let yourself rest. The mind won’t function well when the rest of the body is struggling.
  6. Believe in yourself. Become your biggest supporter. Think about your strengths and take pride in your abilities and achievements. Use this to push yourself forward, because ultimately, if you don’t believe in yourself, no one else will.
  7. Laugh out loud. Laughter can be incredibly powerful. Keep your sense of humor, even when times get tough. Laughing can help relieve stress, boost your mood, and keep things in check.
  8. Have a positive mindset. There are always setbacks in life, but they never last forever. You’ve overcome setbacks in the past, and you’ll get through future setbacks as well. Find at least one thing to focus on to help you stay optimistic.
  9. Don’t sweat the small stuff. In this world, anything can go wrong in an instant, whether it’s your coffee spilling or being stuck in a slow line at the grocery store. Being able to relax and let the small things go can better prepare you for bigger life challenges.
  10. Stick to your routine. When life gets tough or takes an unexpected turn, it’s important to stick to your usual routine. This will help create balance and normalcy, even if it feels like everything else around you is crashing down.
  11. Help others. Helping others is a great way to step outside your own situation. Volunteer in your community, help a friend, or join an organization to help yourself focus on a greater cause.
  12. Look at the big picture. Oftentimes, when things become stressful or difficult, we become so focused on the problem that it takes away from the big picture. Take a step back to look at all you’ve accomplished and all you have to look forward to.

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