Being Resilient: How to Bounce Back Stronger

Through the Dream It, Be It Program sponsored by Soroptimist International today I had the privilege of talking to a group of High School freshmen today through on being resilient and shifting perspectives on failures to turn them into success.

Failure is an inevitable part of life. Everyone, from the most successful entrepreneurs to the most revered artists, has faced setbacks. The difference between those who succeed and those who don't often lies in how they handle failure. Turning failure into success and building resiliency is a skill that can be developed.

Here are six tips I provided on how to navigate this journey:

1.      Embrace Failure as a Learning Opportunity

a.     Shift Your Perspective – Failure is not the end; it's a step towards success. Instead of viewing failure as a defeat, see it as a valuable lesson. Every setback provides insights that can guide your future actions. Ask yourself, "What can I learn from this experience?"

b.    Analyze and Reflect – Take time to reflect on what went wrong. Was it a lack of preparation? Did unforeseen circumstances arise? By understanding the reasons behind your failure, you can avoid making the same mistakes again.

2.      Develop a Growth Mindset

a.     Believe in Improvement – A growth mindset is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. This mindset fosters resilience. Embrace challenges, persevere in the face of setbacks, and see effort as the path to mastery.

b.    Stay curious and open-minded. Seek out new experiences and knowledge. This continuous learning approach can turn obstacles into opportunities for growth.

3.      Build Resiliency Through Action

a.     Set Realistic Goals – Set achievable goals that can guide you towards your larger objectives. Breaking down your goals into smaller, manageable tasks makes them less daunting and more attainable. Celebrate small victories along the way to stay motivated.

b.    Develop a Support System – Surround yourself with supportive people who encourage and inspire you. Whether it's friends, family, or mentors, having a strong support system can provide the encouragement and perspective needed to persevere through tough times.

4.      Cultivate Positive Habits

a.     Practice Self Care – Physical and mental health are crucial for building resilience.  Regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and mindfulness practices like meditation can enhance your ability to cope with stress and bounce back from failures.

b.    Maintain a Positive Attitude – Did you know that being optimistic can significantly impact your resilience. Practice gratitude, focus on what you can control, and keep a hopeful outlook. Positive thinking can boost your mood and improve your problem-solving abilities.

5.      Take Calculated Risks

a.     Step out of your Comfort Zone – Success often requires taking risks.  However, these should be calculated risks where potential outcomes and consequences are considered. Stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to significant growth and opportunities.

b.    Learn to Adapt – Flexibility is key to resilience.  Be prepared to adapt your plans as circumstances change.  My previous boss, the amazing C.S. Frisbie would encourage his leaders to be FUNGIBLE with the ability to pivot as the business needed.  Being open to change and willing to pivot when necessary can help you navigate setbacks more effectively.

6.      Be Tenacious

a.     Keep Moving Forward – Persistence is the key to turning failure into success. Keep pushing forward, even when progress seems slow. Consistency and determination can help you overcome obstacles and achieve your goals.

b.    Embrace Resilience – Resilience is not about avoiding failure but learning how to thrive in the face of it. Embrace resilience by continually challenging yourself, learning from your experiences, and staying committed to your goals.

If I have learned anything about failure in my life it is this:  turning failure into success and building resiliency is a journey that involves changing your perspective, cultivating a growth mindset, taking proactive steps, and maintaining a positive attitude. 

Embrace failure as a natural part of the process, learn from it, and use it as a stepping stone to greater achievements. By developing these skills, you'll not only achieve your goals but also become a stronger, more resilient individual.

Happy Thursday all,

-srt