Over the weekend several news programs reported stories of people who had been affected by Hurricane Harvey.

As this traumatic event has unfolded, there have been both stories of triumph and defeat. You can watch the news reels and readily see those that are beginning to shift their focus onto next steps and rebuilding and those who appear defeated and are struggling.

What enables some people to triumph over difficult circumstances and others to succumb to them?

What are the factors that help people deal with hardships?

Personal resilience is one of the main ingredients that allow people to adapt and deal with adversity, trauma, and tragedy. It’s not a question of whether we have resilience but a question of how much.

Resilience involves behaviors, thoughts, and actions and can be learned and developed in anyone. Personal resilience means we have the ability to BOUNCE back from difficult experiences.

eTIP: Build Personal Resilience

Here are six ways to get you started:

B – BALANCE MATTERS – pay attention to your own needs and feelings. Participant in activities that feed you, that give you perspective, stay away from things that drain you.

O – OPEN-MINDEDNESS – accept that change is a part of life, focus on the things you can change and let go of the things you can’t.

U – UNDERSTAND YOURSELF – people are like toothpaste, you see what’s inside when they are squeezed. Be reflective, know what gives you strength and perseverance.

N – NEGATIVITY DRAINS – stay away from negative people, places, and things, expect good things to happen and surround yourself with people who are optimistic.

C – CONNECTIONS WITH OTHERS – Good relationship with family members, friends, and others are important. It can be the glue that holds things together during tough times.

E – EXERCISE BOTH YOUR MIND AND BODY – don’t underestimate the power of meditation and spiritual practices, learn from the past and keep learning!

Keep On Bouncing!

Learn More: http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/road-resilience.aspx