"Resilience" is key for changing times

To navigate volatile, unpredictable and changing times that are multi-impacted  by events such as COVID,  our ‘Resilience’ is tested and required.

“Resilience” is understanding that life is full of challenges and then developing ability to withstand adversity and bounce back from demanding life events. We cannot avoid many of the problems & challenges in life but we can remain open, flexible, and willing to adapt to change.  Resilience is a proactive virtue that enables us to move through challenge and hardship and become better. Confronting & navigating challenge & change nurtures wisdom , courage & strength.

From this standpoint, here are some of  the ‘key things’ to build Resilience that are currently being discussed and embraced across the Executives & Professional cohort I mentor :

Get connected/Network

Strong relationships and connections are an important predictor of life & career satisfaction. Our circles of connections and relationships are the food for inspiration, acceptance & support and especially important for challenging times. So many roles are awarded through the Relational rather than Advertised job market. Giving time to network “online” is a great way to lay the foundation for present & future career growth. Working on increasing your digital presence whether updating your LinkedIn profile, asking for recommendations, and joining relevant groups. Make lots of new connections and reach out to  new and existing contacts and comment on people’s posts. Learn to approach and engage with your developing network for their perspective, advice and insight. Send notes to former co-workers and other connections and ask how they're doing. Write Posts and Articles on topics of interest that others might benefit from.

Choosing to be positive and optimistic

Positivity is an essential fuel of resilience rather than pessimism. Crises are ‘opportunities’ for change and improvement rather than showstoppers/end points in themselves. We can be excited about change and change for the better.  Many of the most successful people are the most ‘resilient’ whether JK Rowling surviving the rejection of 12 publishers before breaking through with her Harry Potter books or Sir James Dyson going through more than 5,000 prototypes over 15 years before hitting on the bag-less vacuum cleaner. And for many the Father of Resilience: Nelson Mandela and his 27 years Long March to Freedom.

Self -Awareness & Continuous learning

Self awareness followed by self-mastery are key components of successful leadership. Grasping every opportunity to continually learn about ourselves and the world we inhabit. Coming to know our gifts and strengths as well as challenges of our particular personalities. Working on our vision and purpose. Developing a creative & innovative approach rather than a reactive mindset. Remaining hungry to learn  motivated by an abundant curiosity ;   reading ; attending webinars ;  taking control over our achievements and destiny.

Brand

Treat yourself as a Brand even a ‘one person business’ . What do we stand for ? A successful Brand or Business starts with Vision & Values. Define the “benefits” I can bring.  If we are clear about the difference we can make to problems and issues, our value internally and externally in a crowded market appreciates. Who are the consumers internally and externally for my Brand? Working on defining and building your Brand  brings a confidence and resilience of purpose and allows us to be proactive in  work & career.

Big picture / perspective

Career in reality is more like a ‘painting’ than a ladder ; omni directional growth is positive and ok ; horizontal growth can even give a stronger foundation for vertical growth further on.  Every experience adds perspective and a brush stroke to a bigger picture. Go on refining your big picture through a personal Mission & vision statement. Look ahead 5 years and then break down to an 18mth plan.

Keep in shape

To build the resilience to sustain us then Physical, Emotional and even Spiritual health and balance are important. Balancing our multi-roles as offspring, spouses, parents, individual professional workers, community members whilst managing our own journey to self-fulfilment and maximised potential is a demanding but necessary juggling act. Self care leaves you more productive & energised. If we neglect ourselves….we won’t be able to look after, lead and nurture our careers let alone others.