Adrian Volenik
Resilience is like a rubber band. And just as a rubber band can stretch and expand without breaking, resilient people have the capacity to adapt and bounce back from challenging situations.
Like a rubber band, they may be stretched to their limits, but they keep their strength and return to their original form once the pressure is released.
Are you a rubber band or a dry stick?
Here are 16 signs you’re actually quite resilient, even if you don’t feel strong.
1) You bounce back quickly after setbacks
Resilient people have the ability to recover and move forward after facing challenging situations.
If you just brush the dust off your shoulders and keep going, you’re more resilient than most.
Resilience means you’re flexible and open to new circumstances. It allows you to navigate transitions more effectively.
For example, if you’re relocating to a new city or becoming a parent, you’re able to adapt to major life changes by adjusting your routines and finding new growth opportunities.
You show adaptability by exploring different approaches and solutions when faced with challenges.
You can also adjust your strategies based on changing circumstances or feedback.
2) You’ve overcome past hardships
Past experiences of crushing tough situations and misfortunes also prove your resilience.
They can remind you of your inner strength even when you don’t feel strong in the present.
It’s one of the reasons why you’re bouncing back quickly now. You’ve already been there, done that.
3) You maintain a positive outlook
If, despite challenges, you always find ways to stay optimistic and focus on finding solutions rather than dwelling on problems, you’re stronger than you think.
Resilient people always find silver linings and have a playful attitude and confidence they’ll endure.
They direct their energy toward finding solutions and taking proactive steps to overcome obstacles, which keeps them motivated and optimistic.
4) You have a strong sense of purpose
Tell me something, do you have clear goals and values? Do you stay motivated during tough times because you know you’re on a path and nothing can derail you?
Resilient people are motivated by their desire to positively impact their own lives and the lives of others.
In fact, they actively engage in activities and pursue interests that also bring them joy and fulfillment.
They focus on their passions and understand the importance of doing what they love to maintain a sense of purpose.
Can you say that about yourself?
5) You have a strong sense of self-efficacy
In psychology, self-efficacy is a belief in the capability to act in the ways that are necessary to reach specific goals.
Resilient individuals have a strong sense of self-efficacy. They believe in their ability to influence and shape their circumstances, empowering them to take action and persevere.
In other words, they genuinely believe in themselves. But they also do this next thing.
6) You maintain perspective
Robust and gritty people among us also take a step back and see the bigger picture.
They keep their long-term goals and aspirations in mind, which helps them maintain perspective during temporary setbacks or obstacles.
If I didn’t have my “why,” I’d probably work two hours per day and earn enough money just to get by.
I wouldn’t have new and different projects in line and would just play video games all the time.
7) You take calculated risks
Resilient people also aren’t afraid to step outside their comfort zones and take calculated risks in pursuit of their goals.
They analyze the best-case scenario, the worst-case scenario, and the likelihood of each outcome, allowing them to make a more informed decision.
They consider whether you have the necessary skills, knowledge, support, or backup plans to mitigate potential negative outcomes.
Do you like stepping out of your comfort zone to take calculated risks?
8) You have healthy coping mechanisms
Another thing that characterizes resilient people is how they cope and deal with stress, adversity, or challenging situations.
Instead of resorting to destructive behaviors, do you engage in positive activities? Those that promote well-being, such as exercise, journaling, self-care, or cognitive refraining?
How effective you are at adopting healthy coping mechanisms, the better equipped you are to manage stress, regulate your emotions, and maintain your overall well-being.
Coping strategies help you go through challenges, bounce back from adversity, and continue to thrive even in the face of challenging events.
For me, relaxing at the beach is one of the best remedies for stress.
9) You have a supportive network
Whether it’s friends, family, or mentors, having a strong support system contributes to resilience by providing motivation and guidance.
Being part of a supportive network provides us with a sense of belonging and connection.
Resilient people know they have a community that cares for them, which boosts their emotional well-being and enables a sense of security.
That’s why so many people want to be part of clubs, societies, associations, online and offline groups, subcultures, etc.
We all have a strong desire to belong somewhere. In return, we also get many benefits.
10) You take care of yourself
Another sign you’re actually quite resilient, even if you don’t feel strong, is focusing on self-care.
You know that your physical, mental, and emotional well-being play crucial roles in replenishing energy, maintaining balance, and nurturing your health across the board.
Taking care of yourself means you exercise, get enough sleep, maintain a balanced diet, practice relaxation techniques, or engage in hobbies and activities you enjoy.
11) You’re resourceful
Resilient people are experts at finding creative solutions to problems, leveraging available resources, and adapting to limitations.
I often try thinking outside the box and going through many perspectives to find unconventional approaches to find solutions.
But one thing I’m still learning is how to effectively network and build connections.
12) You set realistic expectations
Resilient individuals typically have a balanced view of their abilities and circumstances. This helps them avoid excessive disappointment or self-criticism.
They consider similar situations they’ve encountered before and the outcomes they‘ve achieved. This helps them estimate what’s possible and what may require more effort or adjustments.
For instance, do you set realistic expectations for personal relationships by recognizing that all relationships go through ups and downs?
And what about having realistic expectations for your physical fitness and health? Do you consider your current fitness level, lifestyle, and any limitations you may have?
13) You’re grateful for what you have
You’re also more resilient than you thought if you reflect on the positive aspects of your life. Things like good health, supportive relationships, personal achievements, or simple moments of joy and beauty.
If you don’t recognize the kindness, support, or contributions of family, friends, colleagues, or strangers, whether through verbal expressions, acts of kindness, or written notes of thanks – you should.
An important aspect of gratitude is mindfulness. Mindfulness helps us appreciate the small joys, beauty, and positive experiences that often go unnoticed when the mind is preoccupied with worries or stress.
14) You practice self-reflection
One thing that’s similar to gratitude and mindfulness is self-reflection.
Resilient people take time to reflect on their experiences, identify their strengths and weaknesses, and make adjustments to improve their resilience.
For example, if you want to self-reflect regarding your career choices and goals. Ask yourself questions like:
- Am I satisfied with my current job?
- Do my career aspirations align with my values?
- What skills and knowledge do I need to develop to advance in my career?
This self-reflection will help you make informed decisions, pursue fulfilling career paths, and adapt your professional journey as needed.
15) You have a sense of humor
As far as I’m concerned, a great sense of humor is one of the best skills you can have.
Finding humor in challenging situations provides a valuable perspective and helps lighten the emotional load, contributing to resilience and strength.
A sense of humor is often associated with the already-mentioned positive outlook on life. It can also improve problem-solving skills and creative thinking.
This leads us to my last point.
16) You have good problem-solving skills
Having good problem-solving skills is a valuable asset for building resilience. Resilient people are experts at identifying challenges, analyzing situations, and finding practical solutions.
This comes in handy for personal finance management, for example. With good problem-solving skills, you can analyze your income, expenses, and financial goals to develop a budgeting strategy.
This helps reduce costs, explore investment options, and create a plan to address debt or save for long-term financial goals.
Final thoughts
How many of these describe you? Do you now think you’re actually quite resilient? Or do you think there’s room for improvement?
