How do you compose yourself following a stressful event?
Having emotional resilience means that you have the capability of calming your mind after having a negative experience. It is a way of holding ourselves through all the downsides we may encounter in life. We are born with it and develop it further as we grow.
Emotional resilience does not eliminate stress from your life or remove any difficulties, but it means you have the mental tools to tackle problems, or just even accept them. Having emotional resilience means you’ll live through adversity and continue with your life.
10 Steps to Build Emotional Resilience
Different influences throughout our lives may mean that some seem more naturally resilient compared to others. However, everyone can take steps to build on their emotional resilience and better prepare themselves for any negative occurrences.
Recognise the boundaries.
You must realise that there is a difference between you and what has caused your suffering.
Seek a helpful support network.
Aim to surround yourself with people who will listen to your feelings and be supportive without trying to ‘fix’ you. Find a support network that makes you feel positive.
Practice acceptance.
Changes, loss, stress and pain are all just part of life, and rather than suppressing your feelings about this, you must learn to accept the reality. It’s about acknowledging your feelings, knowing it will go, and that you can get through it.
Remember you won’t have the answers to everything.
You have healing abilities built-in to your being, you don’t need to force this. If you do, you might mess with your natural balance – something that needs time.
Let yourself be imperfect.
When you make mistakes, you don’t need to be discouraged, it’s just a healthy part of living. Try not to do too many things at once to help with this, not everything needs to have the responsibility put onto you. This applies to others around you too.
Consider your goals, and make sure they’re realistic.
Review what you are able to change in your life, and set yourself some achievable goals. Keep going and don’t give up.
Express yourself every day.
When your mind feels like it is becoming crowded, it is always a good idea to bring yourself to the present moment and stop dwelling on things for a while. The best way to do this is by doing some exercise, baking or cooking, practising self-care, speaking to friends and family, or getting creative.
Keep things in perspective.
When you face day-to-day issues, try to look at them from a different perspective. Could it possibly be funny, an act of love, or a sign? Not every negative event has to be as it may first seem.
Notice when you are struggling.
Are you missing out on sleep? Losing your appetite? Feeling anxious, or as if you may relapse? If you feel these things, you must look after yourself and take steps to fix it.
Imagine you are your own best friend.
What would you say to yourself in certain situations? Treat yourself with love, kindness, but remain encouraging and supportive. Offer everything you would offer to your best friend to yourself.
If you have any questions or need further assistance in how you can build your emotional resilience in recovery, please contact us and we will do our best to assist you.
