Over the course of your career, you’ll encounter setbacks, layoffs, rejections in the job search process, failures in projects, lack of advancement, being passed over for promotions and other unfortunate events.
In the last number of decades, the global economy has undergone dramatic changes. Businesses have seen the rapid growth of globalization, fast-emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and a pivot from production to a service economy. In recent years, the United States has contended with high interest rates to fight back against high inflation. Economic headwinds resulted in widespread layoffs and companies taking a wait-and-see approach when it comes to hiring. The transformations swirling within the job market and economy have created financial and job insecurity, which are stress and anxiety-inducing.
To cope with personal failures and the harsh realities that feel out of your control, you must have the resilience to move forward. Resilience is the process of adapting and overcoming obstacles in the face of adversity. It involves getting knocked down, but possessing the inner power and strength to get up again and grow from the experience. By demonstrating resilience, you are taking back control of your circumstances and life.
Building Resilience
Resilient individuals recognize that failure is an inherent part of the learning process and it is an opportunity to develop new skills and insights. Instead of denying or avoiding it, you must face failure with honesty and openness. Recognize that it is not a reflection of your worth, but an opportunity to learn and improve.
It is also essential to acknowledge and accept the emotions that come with failure. Denying or suppressing these feelings can hinder your ability to move forward. Expressing your emotions in a healthy manner, including writing, talking or meditation, can help release tension and gain perspective on your situation.
Building a strong social support system and practicing positive psychology are crucial for developing resilience. It is important to have a network of people who can provide encouragement and guidance in navigating failure and its associated emotions.
Engaging in self-care activities, such as getting enough sleep, exercise and nutrition, as well as practicing gratitude, can help replenish energy and resilience. Additionally, reflecting on the failure and the lessons learned is crucial for personal growth and resilience development.
Resilience is not built on success alone; it requires cultivating a growth mindset. Each time an individual overcomes a challenging situation, their resilience grows, enabling them to better withstand future obstacles.
To get into this mindset, you must build back your confidence by doing things that you are good at—guaranteed wins. Not only will it help get your mind off of whatever is bringing you stress and anxiety, it will also make you feel good to do something you enjoy and excel at. Don’t take these small victories for granted, as you need these little pats on the back to keep you moving forward.
It will serve as a reminder that you can power through the rough times. Think of all the instances when you rose to the occasion. Play back in your head the highlight reels of your triumphs. This helps train your mind in recognizing that you can deal with tough stuff, get over the hurdles and keep moving forward.
Source: Forbes