Resilience. What does it mean to you? Being mentally strong? Bouncing back from tough times? That word has always been very relevant in the world of entrepreneurship, but potentially never more so than during, and in the recovery from, the Covid-19 pandemic. However you define it though, resilience is not just a nice-to-have quality but a crucial survival skill. As women in business, the ability to build – and maintain – our resilience is an indispensable tool that can help us to not only navigate challenges, but to achieve long-term success. In this blog, we’ll explore actionable strategies to empower ourselves to learn how to be more resilient.
There is also a clear link between resilience and Imposter Syndrome. When we suffer with Imposter Syndrome, we doubt ourselves and our abilities, often in the relentless pursuit of perfection, as I’ve described in an earlier blog. However, by learning how to be more resilient, we are able to more easily accept the ups and downs of life as an entrepreneur, knowing that we will come out the other side of whatever challenges we’re facing.
7 ways to be more resilient
1. Embrace change as an opportunity: Resilient women view change not as a threat but as an opportunity for growth. When you run your own business, adaptability is key. Embrace change with an open mind, recognising that each shift in the landscape brings new possibilities and chances for personal and professional development.
2. Develop a Growth Mindset: A growth mindset is one of the foundations of resilience. To be more resilient, cultivate the belief that challenges are opportunities to learn and improve. Instead of viewing setbacks as failures, see them as valuable lessons that contribute to your overall growth. This mindset shift will empower you to bounce back stronger from any adversity.
3. Build strong support networks: Surround yourself with a diverse and supportive network of colleagues, mentors, and friends. Share your experiences and challenges with these individuals, seeking advice and perspective. A strong support system can provide emotional sustenance during tough times and act as a source of inspiration and motivation.
4. Set realistic goals and expectations: We are able to be more resilient when grounded in realistic goals and expectations. Break down larger objectives into smaller, manageable tasks. Celebrate achievements along the way, reinforcing a positive feedback loop that bolsters your confidence and resilience.
5. Learn from setbacks: Learning to be more resilient is not about avoiding failure but about learning from it. When setbacks occur, take the time to reflect on the experience. Analyse what went wrong, identify lessons learned, and use this knowledge to inform future decisions. The setbacks then become stepping stones for growth.
6. Cultivate emotional intelligence: Understanding and managing your emotions is a powerful aspect of resilience. Develop emotional intelligence by being aware of your feelings, expressing them effectively, and empathising with others. This skill set enables you to navigate challenging situations with both grace and resilience. You can find some great tips to help you here.
7. Continuously learn and adapt: The business landscape is in a constant state of flux. Resilient women recognise the importance of continuous learning and adaptation. Be proactive, and stay informed about industry trends, acquire new skills, and remain agile in your approach to challenges.
Learning how to be more resilient is not simply about acquiring a new or improved professional skill. Resilience represents a mindset that empowers women to thrive in the face of adversity. Remember too, that resilience is not the absence of challenges but the ability to rise above them. Hear me when I say that you’ve got the strength that you need, within you – now go build that resilience and conquer the world!