#1: Bounce Back - Developing Resilience

When something goes wrong, do you tend to bounce back or fall apart? When you have resilience, you harness inner strength that helps you to rebound from a setback or challenge. You can cultivate the traits that will help you move through challenges and develop a: “Yes I Can” attitude.

There are six core traits you need to build resilience:

Self-awareness - identifying the thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that are counterproductive to your health. For example: “I am just unable to control what food is in my kitchen, and it makes me gain weight.”

Self-control - the ability to control impulses to achieve longer-term goals. Prioritizing eating well and using self-control to achieve your goal of weight loss and better health. For example: “I don’t have to stop and pick up something to eat, I have healthy foods waiting for me.”

Optimism - noticing the good in yourself and others. Identifying what can be controlled (and what can’t!), and challenging beliefs that are counterproductive. Focusing on your strengths rather than your weaknesses.

Mental flexibility - being flexible in your thinking, looking from a variety of perspectives and being willing to try new strategies to achieve your goals. There is no one way to obtain your optimal health. Be stubborn about your goals, but flexible about your methods.

Knowing your character strengths - identifying your top 3 strengths that can be used towards achieving your best health. Rely on your strengths to overcome challenges and meet your goals.

Connection - building strong relationships through effective communication. Getting help when you need it.

The more resilient you are, the more you can roll with the punches of life.

“Fall down seven times….get up eight!”