How To Build a Resilience Reserve?

Fuel up on resilience.

How To Build a Resilience Reserve?
Are you running on empty? Photo by Izz R / Unsplash

I often hear people talking about how they feel like they are running on empty, especially in times of stress. Building your resilience reserves isn’t just about recovering from tough moments; it’s about developing the mental strength to cope with adversity in the first place.

If you’re looking to cultivate a deeper well of resilience, here’s what I suggest:

Engage in self-care activities

There’s nothing like taking care of yourself to give you a little extra boost. Activities like going for a walk, taking a bath, or reading a book can help you feel more positive and focused.

Sleep impacts your resilience

While my addiction to my Oura Ring is not always healthy, I can tell you with confidence that quality sleep is foundational to my overall resilience. The data simply doesn't lie. Here's a fascinating blog post on the topic:

Rest & Resilience: The Role of Sleep in Stress Management
Quality sleep improves your ability to adapt to life’s stressors. Learn how sleep builds resilience and strategies to sleep more soundly.

Get curious

Being able to approach life with a sense of curiosity can help you see setbacks as opportunities for growth. Ask yourself, “what can I learn from this experience?” and you’ll be better equipped to handle whatever comes your way.

Celebrate small wins

While the big milestones in life are important, don’t forget to celebrate the small wins along the way. Acknowledging your progress can help you feel more motivated to keep pushing forward.

Practice mindfulness

Being present in the moment can help you stay calm and focused, even in the midst of a storm. Practice meditation, deep breathing, or other mindfulness exercises to help you cultivate a deeper sense of inner peace.

To further build your resilience reserves, here are five reflection questions to help you evaluate your progress:

  1. What self-care activities do I enjoy most, and how can I incorporate them into my daily routine?
  2. How can I find a supportive community to help me reach my goals?
  3. In what areas of my life could I benefit from a more curious, growth-oriented mindset?
  4. What can you do right now that would lift you up? A scoop of ice cream? Do it!
  5. What mindfulness practices could I incorporate into my daily routine to help me stay calm and centered?

Building resilience takes effort and intention, but the rewards are well worth it. So, take a deep breath, get curious, and keep on building that resilience reserve!