Easing the mental fog by building resilience and reaping the benefits

Abstract

Resilience is defined by the OED as ‘The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.’ but recent literature reviews are now linking it with both ‘growth’ and ‘thriving’. Rather than just bouncing back, it is believed that facing, and overcoming, crisis can create the conditions to spring forwards. This article 1. highlights a model of resilience which includes an outcome of flourishing; 2. identifies 3 key areas in which building resilience supports continued wellbeing; 3. offers practical ways in which it is possible to continue to flex, stretch and build inner strength without the need for the catalyst of crisis; concluding that when we build and commit to exercising mental and emotional fortitude reguarly, not only is it possible to overcome any adversity, but thrive beyond it.