I like to think of Resilience as a form of flexibility, or put another way – the ability to bend without breaking. Just imagine the power in that – being pushed to the outer limits of your endurance and when you are feeling completely and utterly overwhelmed, you uncurl yourself and realise you are still standing. The good news is that this ability to rise again, is rooted in some key habits that can be taught and practiced. Habits that ultimately change your perspective and make you emotionally more supple and resilient. Research shows us that this capability to adapt, grow, and thrive in the face of obstacles starts with adopting the three secret habits of resilient women in the workplace. Let’s look at why and what this could mean for you.
The daily grind for women is real
In the dynamic and demanding landscape of our modern careers, women are navigating unique challenges and biases in their professional journeys. Women in the workplace encounter hurdles that their male counterparts simply do not. These can range from unconscious biases and the gender pay gap, to the good old “glass ceiling” syndrome, which surprisingly still exists in many environments. There is a persistent juggle of career aspirations with societal expectations and family responsibilities. Each of these is a source of stress, disappointment, or even burnout. This pressure to “have it all” – a successful career, a thriving family life, and a fulfilling personal life – can be immense for women. It often translates into long hours, mental fatigue, the imposter syndrome and the feeling of constantly being pulled in many directions.
Shaping a new struggle story
This all sounds very negative – and that’s what we need to change. How do women actively cultivate a more flexible approach to these daily challenges and reframe this struggle? How do we regain a sense of control so that we convert obstacles into stepping stones, criticisms into constructive feedback, and setbacks into opportunities for reinvention of ourselves?
If you are feeling overwhelmed and the desire to stay tightly curled in a protective ball seems to dominate your thoughts, then consider adopting these three habits into your daily routine:
Three secret habits of resilient women
- Intentionally focus on what really matters – and yes, this takes practice! Resilience doesn’t mean pretending everything is perfect. Instead, it’s about actively seeking out the positive aspects of a situation, even amidst the challenges. This isn’t about forced optimism, but more about seeing the small wins instead. Rather than feeling the need to resolve or rehash every single negative emotion or outcome, sometimes, simply acknowledging a feeling and moving on to what you can now positively control is way more beneficial.
- Don’t go it alone – Trying to navigate career challenges and personal pressures alone is incredibly draining. Again, research is telling us that this increasing trend of isolation as a coping mechanism can contribute negatively to both our mental and physical wellness in the long-term. Actively seek out meaningful human connection. Depending on your situation this could mean speaking to colleagues or perhaps building a network of friends or family who understand and uplift you. In business, join your local Business Chamber to connect with other woman on this journey. Share your experiences, ask for advice, and offer support in return. The old adage “No man (or woman) is an island” really does apply here.
- Refuel and be kind to yourself – Resilience is more easily sustained through consistent care for your personal well-being. This means prioritizing sleep, healthy eating, and exercise. It also means being kind to yourself when things don’t go as planned. Think of yourself as your very own best friend. Instead of self-criticism, offer yourself the same understanding and encouragement you would give to someone else. Schedule time for hobbies, relaxation, and activities that replenish your energy, even in small increments.
For women in the workplace, resilience is a continuous journey of growth and ultimately empowerment. Being able to bend and then somehow, against all odds look upward and face the next hurdle helps us navigate the complexities of our professional lives, but also inspires others to do the same. The power of resilience is not just a personal attribute – it’s a collective force for change and it paves the way for a kinder and more inclusive future.
Take our FREE Resilience Assessment and find out if you have the ‘clever plans and tricks’ that will enable you to face your next workplace hurdle or setback.
