We live in a world that is constantly looking for shortcuts. So when it comes to overcoming adversity, there must be an easier way right? Nope. There is no other way than to build resilience, bit by bit, challenge by challenge.
Never Complain
The first secret to building resilience is to never complain. No matter what the circumstances are. Every time you complain, it is an admission that you are powerless. Instead, analyze the situation and figure out what you can do better. This empowers you with the agency to solve tough problems.
Life is Not Fair
A lot of us have some implicit notion of “fairness” in life. We might think, “Why is X, Y or Z happening to me? It’s not fair”. The thing to realize is that life is not fair. Certainly, it does not conform to our personal notions of fairness. The only opportunity given to us by life is to play the hand that we are dealt with, moment after moment.
Just Show Up
My meditation teacher always says, “90% of life is showing up”. Whether you are feeling great or not-so-great, if you can show up day-after-day, you will have uncommon resilience. The easiest way to win is to not quit.
Conclusion
Resilience always beats planning. The planner is paralyzed the moment reality hits. The resilient one simply outlasts everyone.