Tips for emotional resilience

~ Focus on what you can control, not what’s out of your control: be solution-focused, not problem-focused;
~ Use events as learning experiences, the Chinese symbol for crisis is made up of the two symbols for danger plus opportunity: be flexible and open-minded;
~ Alter your perceptions, don’t try to change others. As Epictetus said “It is not events which disturb us, but our view of those events.” Enhance rational thinking to prevent negativity from spinning out of control!
~ Limit the hostility factor. The negativity and anger we harbor for others is more destructive to the one who harbors the resentment: be generous and giving in spirit and avoid a negative focus;
~ Strive for GOODNESS, not PERFECTION. Give up the need to be right. Limit defensiveness. Forgive – both yourself and others. Accept limitations. Let go of “shoulds” which make one bitter;
~ Develop compassion. Choose kindness over being right. Resist the need to be critical;
~ Develop good self-care habits. Allow yourself “mental health breaks” and “time out” regularly. Take care of needs in mind, body, and spirit. Eat well, exercise and get enough sleep. Pamper yourself. Set limits, prioritize, and delegate;
~ Don’t isolate yourself – CONNECT! Avoid self absorption. Seek to understand – not to only be understood;
~ Look for the humor in things. Lighten up! Life is too serious to be taken too seriously;
~ Develop mindfulness. Learn to live in the present. Don’t ruminate on events, which can’t be changed.