Today (18 March 2025) I read a blog post created years ago by Jasmin Lütke-Laxen describing the seven pillars of resilience. Many of us feel fearful and angry about the uncertainty facing us right now. I thought it would be interesting to apply what I read to current circumstances. German author Micheline Rampe posited these factors of resilience.
- Optimism. Resilient people “are aware that almost any situation can change for the better without losing sight of reality.” Recent changes in the US federal organization and policies may be confusing, but things will change. In the words of Resmaa Menakem “we do not and cannot know what will emerge. As the future unfolds, we can act from the past parts of ourselves.”.
- Self–efficacy. This is the belief that you can achieve something through your own effort with the qualities and skills you have. We may not be able to change what’s happened, but we can organize and advocate. We can take care of each other.
- Future orientation. The past cannot be changed. What’s happened has happened. We can hold a vision of a better world and work toward it in our own lives and communities.
- Acceptance. Resilient people can accept situations that they cannot change. We can keep up-to-date while we find healthy limits for news consumption. We can help each other stay informed of both news events and attitudes and activities of creative resistance.
- Taking responsibility. Rather than focusing on who is to blame and feeling victimized, we admit our mistakes, make amends where we can, and move forward constructively. What positive new things are emerging? What parts can we play?
- Solution orientation. Rather than focusing on problems, resilient people look to practical, achievable goals. Jasmin Lütke-Laxen reminds us of the SMART.formula. That is that goals should be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
- Network orientation. Resilient people consciously turn to others for support. We are better together. We can support each other, hear each other’s stories, share compassion, formulate ideas and solutions, and celebrate accomplishments.
Just writing this list leaves me feeling more optimistic and energized. I hope reading it is helpful to you.
In your journal:
- Consider each “pillar” of resilience. How do you see it working in your life?
- Which pillar of resilience is most important to you? Describe a time on when you leaned into it.
- Who are your supporters?