Insights 24: Resilience - outer shield or inner strength

Edition 24:  12 October 2022

Thoughtful quotations:

“The oak fought the wind and was broken, the willow bent when it must and survived." Robert Jordan

“Do not judge me by my success, judge me by how many times a fell down and got back up again” Nelson Mandela    

“Courage doesn’t always roar. It is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying ‘I will try again tomorrow.” Mary Anne Radmacher

Context for reflection:

The scars of life are numerous and serious, for many people, in all walks of life. Many a spirit is broken or severely damaged. Too often people put on a brave face, mask their challenges which seem insurmountable, pretending to be physically strong when our emotions are in tatters.  

We often refer to resilience when observing physical power, dominance, gladiator style, and marval. The Oak tree shows the folly of outward strength and bravado. To fight is often not sustainable.

True resilience is far deeper. It is an awareness of self (body, mind, and spirit), that builds inner peace, giving the focused energy to persevere against the odds. It is this balance that builds inner peace that empowers to overcome. Resilience is born through acknowledging and confronting our vulnerabilities, not hiding from them. True resilience helps us develop the flexibility, pliability and elasticity to bounce back, understanding that adversity is part of the game. It enables us to wear the scars of life and have the sustained ability to get up to face the challenge of tomorrow. 

A few question to contemplate:

• Do you prioritise your mental health?
• How do you exercise and test the power of your mind and spirit?
• Where, and how do you get support? Where is your safe space?
• Does your work team show real care and support for each other?

Drafted in all humility as I continue my journey of discovery. It is indeed challenging, with so much to remember and learn.

Master your leadership, attend the Insights Leadership programme 2022. Attend our Webinar for practical thoughts on “Building the resilient you”.

Andrew Pons

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