How to Overcome Obstacles and Become Resilient at Workplace?

Some people are born with the ability to overcome the obstacles and setbacks with relative ease. As per the experts, this trait is called as resilience. According to psychologist Dr. Robert Brooks, “People with resilience have a greater sense of control over their lives”. This makes them more willing to take risks. “Further, they are more likely to develop and maintain positive relationships with others and live more meaningful lives due to their optimistic outlook”, Brooks says.

So, how to make yourself more resilient? Here are 10 things you should focus on:

1) Stay Flexible.

Resilient people always expect facing challenges at different points in their lives. This gives them the ability to adjust their goals and find ways to adapt.

2) Learn Lessons.

Always focus on the positive lessons you can learn from a negative experience. When a tough situation arises, don’t focus on who is to blame. Let go of asking “Why me?” and feeling like a victim. Instead ask yourself what you could do differently next time to have a better result.

There’s a short story about Thomas Edisson’s reaction when he got to know about the fire at his Lab. He said to his child to call his mother and her friends and let them see how they were able to get rid of the clutter all these years. It is his positive attitude in this worst situation that made him work harder such that he was able to earn double than before the fire for his work.

3) Take Action.

Resilient people always work on solving problems instead of letting themselves get paralyzed by negativity. So, first think about what you can do to improve a situation, and then do it. 

4) Stay Connected.

Nurture your relationships with friends and family. When you’re going through a tough time, don’t withdraw from other people. Accept help from those who care about you. Resilient people will have at least one or two people in their lives they can turn to for support.

5) Release Tension.

Ensure you have outlets to express your emotions and let go of tension. You can do the following:

1. Write in a journal.
2. Meditate.
3. Talk with a friend or counselor.
4. Draw.

6) Have a Sense of Purpose. 

Do things which bring meaning to your life such as spending time with your family, volunteering or other work for a cause which can make you feel stronger. Volunteering can help you by giving a sense of purpose and often a feeling of mastery. Often people who've had a serious illness find that being in a marathon or walk to raise money for a health-related charity makes them feel better.

7) Learn Healthy Habits.

People who stay physically strong tend to be more emotionally resilient. You’ll manage stressful times better if you:

1. Eat a balanced diet.
2. Exercise regularly.
3. Take time to rest.

8) Believe in Yourself.

Identify your personal strengths and take pride in your abilities and what you’ve done.

9) Keep Laughing.

Hold on to your sense of humor even when times are tough. This is because laughter relieves stress and helps you to keep things in check.

10) Be Optimistic.

A positive, hopeful outlook will always make you much more resilient. Remember that most problems that you’ll face in life are temporary, and that you have overcome setbacks in the past.