Truth: stress and adversity can pop up anywhere, any time. Just when you think you have it all under control when–BAM!–you get hit with something that derails your best intentions and sends you into a tailspin.
You got up early and are walking out the door on time and ready for your day, then you spill your coffee on your lap in the car.
You spent the week preparing for a big presentation at work and are ready to rock their socks off. At 9am the meeting gets pushed out for 3 more days! Seriously?!
You get the drift… Things change, pressure exists, stuff happens. What you do with that pressure and how to move forward are the keys to success.
Why is it that things seem so easy for some people? They go about their daily lives seemingly without a worry, while others around them struggle and muddle through their day. The answer: They’re RESILIENT.
Being resilient doesn’t mean you’re immune to stress and problems, it just means you know how to be tough in the face of them and you can bounce back quickly from setbacks.
Here are some simple steps you can take TODAY to start building up your mental strength to succeed no matter what life throws your way!
1) Evaluate your thinking
We have a constant stream of thoughts running through our minds like a ticker tape. These core thoughts are based on our experiences, beliefs, values, everything that makes you YOU.
We also have a tendency to believe ourselves. This means that negative self talk can really hurt your performance and your self esteem.
If you find yourself in stressful situation, ask yourself, “What am I focusing on right now? How is this making me feel? Is this thought helping me or holding me back?” Choose to replace negative thoughts with positive and productive ones.
2) Use your mental energy wisely
Ruminating over things that are out of your control zaps your mental energy. Save that energy by focusing on what you WANT, not what you DON’T WANT.
Your mind is a powerful tool–use it to solve problems and create positive actions.
(Related: Lead Your Energy, Find More Time, Get More Done!)
3) Push your boundaries
Create new thoughts or take new actions that seem risky or even feel uncomfortable.
Many times when situations are stressful, you feel like shrinking back into your shell for protection. This is 100% normal and is actually a defense mechanism we’re “wired” with for survival.
The truth is, taking risks often leads to the greatest rewards and instills self-confidence when we not only survive but succeed!
4) Create new habits that support resilience
Adopt a mantra or read an affirmation that pumps you up or gives you confidence when you’re feeling low. Repeat this to yourself and notice the difference in how you feel and how you approach situations.
(Related: Working With Intention)
5) Assess your progress regularly
Create time each day (even on your daily commute) to reflect on your achievements, the positive changes you’ve made, what you’ve learned, and goals you intend to accomplish the next day or week.
Developing resilience is a continual process that takes attention and practice. When creating new habits, there’s always room for improvement and some days will be harder than others.
Just remember, you’re the BOSS of you and you can handle anything you choose to!
If you want to increase your work enjoyment and productivity, schedule a Complimentary Discovery Call with me today!
You can also download my free gift, “The Rule-Breaker’s Guide to Managing Your Energy at Work” to learn how to take back control of your energy every day!
