4 handy habits to increase your resilience

Let’s get into our Stretch Zone, people – it’s a tried and tested way to increase your resilience. Use these four methods and become more resilient today. SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals for the win!

1. Plan achievable goals

What’s your ‘thing’? Swimming? Knitting? Roller-disco? Whatever your interests, plan a little end-goal to prove you’ve improved. Your journey arc is easier to map and keeps you on track on darker days. “I’m going to get fitter” is woolly: try “I’m going to swim a mile for charity”. It feels unrealistic at first but a tangible goal creates visible progress.

2. Buddy Up

It’s can be so lonely, ‘doing stuff’. We can get distracted or feel unmotivated. It’s proven that someone to ‘body double’ with you (do similar tasks alongside you so you’re kept on track) can have a huge effect on your success. An accountability partner is a game-changer – find your mutual cheerleader today and plan regular meet-ups and check-ins.

3. Don’t Over-Think the Data

I hate failing. Little set-backs feel cruel and knock your confidence. During one swim training session I hit my local lido in earplugs, goggles, serious swimsuit and stopped swimming after three lengths. I literally couldn’t swim the 50m back to the changing rooms. My ears hurt; I was in tears. But it was just data: I can’t always rely on being able to swim as far as before. Good to know.

4. Celebrate!

Always acknowledge the wins. When my writing was published for the first time, I stopped everything and sat and read it, oblivious of the rest of the world. I allowed myself to feel real pride. I can see it like it was yesterday. This behaviour cements in your brain that you’re an achiever and creates a tangible comparison marker in your brain for next time.

So don’t linger in the Comfort Zone (too nervous to expand your talents), or throw yourself into your Panic Zone (and damage your confidence). What can you become more resilient with, starting today?