Developing your resilience

In your ‘work from home’ place.

In only a matter of weeks, there’s no understating it, our lives have turned upside down. Each day, we’re bracing ourselves from the impact of more announcements, mandates and orders, as we navigate our new social-distancing reality. 

While everyone’s circumstances are different, collectively, we’re still in the early stages of coping and adapting to the obstacles and challenges covid-19 has thrown our way. 

Whether this is your first time working remotely, or you’re a regular in your home office, it takes a mental shift in adapting to either working alone, sharing the space with your entire family, or your housemates. 

Besides, this isn’t just ‘working from home’ as you may have known it. It’s working from home during a global pandemic crisis. One that’s permeating so much of our personal and professional lives.

The good news is the human spirit is inherently resilient.

We’re hardwired to adapt and survive; we may need some help to tap into that resilience. 

If you’re overwhelmed with the stresses and strains of your new ‘workplace’, remember resilience is a capacity you can build. Consider it weight-training for your mind – with some practice and effort; you’ll get better at coping with the difficult stuff. 

How to increase your resilience

During this time of change, it’s okay to feel the feelings. You may experience all six of your basic human emotions, either individually, or at the same time! We’re going to have both positive and negative reactions to our new way of working, the lack of physical interaction and social restrictions. 

Adapting to these extenuating circumstances is key to navigating a covid-19 world. The tough times may be here for a while. If you can understand the three dimensions; external influences, mind-internal voice and physical health and how they work together to increase your resilience, you’ll be better equipped to take control of your emotional reactions. 

 How to develop your resilience 

Building your resilience in your remote working environment begins with you. 

Dealing with those stressful moments in your new work-space are helped when you’re able to improvise, set realistic expectations, renew your purpose and focus on what you have. This is resilience, and if you have it, it can be your competitive advantage. 

Let’s explore ten ways you can develop your resilience.  

1.     Make connections and build your social support network.

2.     Avoid tendency to view crises as insurmountable challenges.

3.     Accept that change is a natural and unavoidable part of life.

4.     Move towards your realistic goals.

5.     Take decisive action that will help you face your challenges.

6.     Look for opportunities that promote self-discovery.

7.     Nurture a positive view of yourself and your abilities.

8.     Keep things in perspective and in context.

9.     Maintain a hopeful outlook on life. 

10.  Take care of yourself. 

 Reach out to us if you’re interested in your senior leaders or teams participating in our Resilience program.