How Mindful Readers Bounce Back

When our inner resilience takes root, it allows us to empower ourselves, strengthen our communities, and lead more meaningful lives. Here’s what Mindful readers had to say about the role that resilience plays for them.

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Who is the most resilient person you know and why? 

My husband. However dark the problem may be, he can see past it to the sunshine on the other side!

My mom—she took care of my dad with Alzheimer’s, as well as other residents of the nursing home. She carried on with grace and strength, even after she lost her love of 65 years.

My daughter. I can’t believe how strong she is. No matter what life throws at her, she is able to look at it through clear eyes.

A friend who is 35 years sober. She has the skills and she practices them!

One of my high school students, who has had to face one adversity after another. Despite continual setbacks, he keeps on track to achieve his dreams. 

Me, from years of coping, and my strong sense of duty to my family.

My spouse. She puts up with me!

What does resilience mean to you?

For some readers, being resilient means they can field stressful situations and difficult emotions from day to day. For others, resilience comes up mostly in troubled times, enabling them to survive adversity or trauma. It can also include their readiness to adapt to change and grow stronger through life’s challenges.

Are you part of a resilient community? 

Has mindfulness boosted your resilience? 

71% Yes, definitely

4% Not really

19% I’m not sure

6% I don’t practice mindfulness

Do you seek out people close to you to strengthen your resilience?  

Over half (53%) of readers say they do have a healthy support network, while 39% say they tend to hide their struggles. And 8% say they aren’t sure how to reach out for assistance.  

What are your key sources of resilience?

Life being the best teacher, 77% of readers say their resilience comes from their life experience so far. The next predominant source of resilience is having a contemplative or self-care practice (64%), followed by optimism and positive self-
regard (52%)
. For 47%, close relationships also let them grow more resilient. 25% added working on it through therapy helps.