If we are to desire a life that is free from adversities and challenges, we must first learn how to be strong and resilient. For life without problems and difficulties is not possible and it is only through recovering that we can appreciate winning. Therefore, the only way to recovery is through facing and seizing the odds with our own brave hands. Confucius once said: “Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall”.
“A good half of the art of living is resilience.” Alain de Botton
Every person in this world has to experience ups and downs no matter how abundant their life seems to be. It is the common theme in a meaningful life; an existence full of adventures and wonders. This is the law of existence so therefore it is crucial to prepare one’s self all the time and be wise in facing your daily struggles by using your strengths efficiently. But by doing this, you must also acknowledge your weaknesses and recognize the things that you can’t do so that you won’t force and break your self in situations that give you trials.
Another thing you must avoid is the victim mentality. It is normal that serious problems come to our lives and this is part of the sacred rhythm, the polarity of pleasure and pain. However, too much self-pity and distrust to oneself will never help either. To overcome defeat, one must not think of himself as powerless. Always remember that a struggle is normal. As one stoic philosopher Seneca has said: “Excellence withers without an adversary”.
No matter how easy life you think it is, it will always be challenging if you would really strive for a good one. Because if you really take a closer look you will notice that there are many things that need your attention. And along with these things are adversaries, big or small, that you need to face for your way to a more meaningful and peaceful life to be cleared again. Whether you are ready or not, your life has started and it will go on. This means that you better take responsibility. In doing so, remember the Japanese proverb: “Fall seven times, stand up eight”.
“If your heart is broken, make art with the pieces.” Shane Koyczan
In facing our adversaries, we can learn a lot and even get creative. We can bring out our unconscious shadow to the light of our consciousness and make them the subject of contemplation. We will see and meet the personalities of ourselves we haven’t met before; they will teach us more and we will become another survivor because of it. As Helen Keller once said, “Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it”. And this overcoming will give us more taste, smell, pieces, flowers, fruits, and the essence of life. It will bring us more lessons. But no matter what, the bottom line is: we can use our own story as an inspiration to others and most especially, to our selves. Through using our strengths consciously, we can face life’s trials and misfortunes confidently.
“Resilience is all about being able to overcome the unexpected. Sustainability is about survival. The goal of resilience is to thrive.” Jamais Cascio
Running away from our problems will never really help solve them but instead, allow them to grow and become more complex. Usually, people avoid stress and do everything to avoid being bothered by it. Some turn to distractions and some to other things that would help numb their feelings. But the fact is, a life without stress is a superficial life. That’s why having no experience with the tribulations and the blows of life is like having an incomplete story in a book or in a movie. Sometimes, it leaves a haunting feeling of discontent and regret. And what if the first blow that will hit is a huge one, how will you handle it? Typically when it hits, people who are not ready get defeated. That’s why before it’s late, you must realize that the most important thing to do is become prepared. With this, you will always be ready to face whatever problems in your life.
The Psychology of Resilience: Thriving in Adversity
References:
- Resilience Sayings and Quotes
- https://resiliencei.com/2017/03/8-quotes-about-resilience-and-transformation/
Featured Photo: positivepsychology.com/resilience-activities-worksheets/
