The MWCN team recently participated in a training session on the topic of resiliency. During one of the sessions, we were asked to think about someone past or present in our lives that we thought exhibited great resiliency. This question was followed by the question, “what is resiliency to you?” “What makes some people or communities more resilient than others?” Needless to say, I found these questions very intriguing.
During the conference and after much reflection the following is what I learned.
There are multiple types of resilience that can grow and enhance our lives. We can speak of resilience in one person or the resilience of a whole community and the different types can be seen everywhere.
Here are a few examples of where we can find resilience: Physical resilience; Social resilience; mental resilience; community resilience.
There are also some main characteristics of a resilient person which are very interesting.
Some examples of these characteristics are as follows: self awareness; realistic; keeping calm under pressure; empathy; self-control; self-motivated; and optimistic. Where do you see yourself in these characteristics?
I think having a resilient community and having resilient residents goes hand in hand, being socially connected, within one’s community is so important. Resilient communities promote individuals with a sense of community through social, cultural, and physical activities. Highlighting the positive within one’s community, and having a mindset that can easily adapt to change.
Many of us have faced new challenges over the last 24 months, but I think this is a good time to remember that you all have resiliency skills within you.
Being resilient won’t make your problems go away but being resilient can give you the ability to see past them, find enjoyment in life and better handle the stress. If you aren’t as resilient as you’d like to be, you can develop skills to become more resilient. Staying socially connected via zoom or in person are both wonderful options. All of us at MWCN look forward to continuing to share our resiliency with you, together we are more resilient.
Nora Donnelly
www.mwcn.ca
