The Cambridge dictionary describes the word resilience as having the ability to be happy or successful again after something difficult or bad has happened. Whilst heading back home from a walk with my dog I was listening to the podcast ‘Happy Place’ by Fearne Cotton featuring Christian O’Connell as guest. The moment I put my key into the front door I heard Fearne say: ‘what a brilliant example of what resilience looks like’. I was extremely impressed by the power of the word, but also found myself wondering what resilience looks like for myself.
A doctor, Dr Kenneth R. Ginsburg, child paediatrician and human development expert, proposes that there are 7 integral components that make up being resilient. His book ‘Building resilience in children and teens’, co-written with Martha M. Jablow is ultimately written in regards to an age group I no longer am a part of: children’s and teens. When preparing to deep dive into the meaning of the word resilience, I read up a lot on the meaning of the word, which falls under ‘the seven C’s’:
Competence, confidence, connection, character, contribution, coping and control.
When reading the top seven points, I’m sure there was one that stood out to you. Because who hasn’t come across these points in their life, or more specifically at work? The point that stood out most for me was character.
Having character at work to me means you are in touch with your core values and want to stick to them, even if you are being tested. Does this equally fall under resilience? What does resilience mean to you?
When starting out my career at 19 years old in the fashion industry, there was still much I – obviously – had to learn. But I don’t mean how to work an excel sheet. Graduating from school with good results isn’t enough. No one teaches you how to come across confidently in a meeting, how to cope with bitchy bosses, or when to speak up (or shut up).
Why is resilience at work important? It’s important to find your own voice and work style whilst building your career. And without resilience I personally would feel this is hard to accomplish.
I would like to quote Mind.co.uk, as I feel there is no better answer to the question How do we develop resilience? “Resilience is not just your ability to bounce back, but also your capacity to adapt in the face of challenging circumstances, whilst maintaining a stable mental wellbeing. Resilience isn’t a personality trait – it’s something that we can all take steps in, to achieve.”
Book recommendations on resilience at your work:
-
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson
-
Nice girls don’t get the corner office by Lois P. Frankel
-
Think Again by Adam Grant
-
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
-
Start With Why by Simon Sinek
