Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks, adapt well to change, and keep going in the face of adversity.
During your qualifying period, you’re likely to experience some setbacks. Whether that be struggling to get a test date, feeling lost and unsure of what’s expected of you, or perhaps your chosen Part 3 pupil lets you down the night before!
In the face of these setbacks, we can decide on a plan and act on it. Allow it to define how we feel and act, or take control and adapt. A lot of PDIs, rightfully so, get angry at the lack of test date availability. However, try to adapt and see it as a positive; more time to gain experience and feel fully prepared for when a test date is emailed to you. Have a backup pupil (or 2!) available for you to call on, just in case!
Facing adversity is a part of life that everyone encounters. It can be challenging, but there are strategies to help you keep going and even thrive in the face of difficulties.
Here are some steps you can take:
1. Be Prepared
Building resilience starts before adversity hits. Develop a growth mindset and inner strength. Examine any limiting beliefs and create a support system.
2. Practice Positivity
Shift your perspective to frame challenges positively. Replace negative self-talk with empowering beliefs. To quote Henry Ford – “Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right.”
3. Stay Disciplined
Establish strong rituals and habits like meditation and exercise to prepare your mind and body for tough times. Our vehicles need fuel to run; we need our own fuel too.
4. Stay Focused
Keep your goals in sight and remember why they are important to you. This focus can drive you to overcome obstacles such as those listed above.
5. Seek Support
Having a network of friends, family, or professionals can provide the necessary support to navigate through tough times. The Empathetic Instructor Training Group is a safe, supportive area full of support from like-minded individuals.
6. Learn from Others
Look at how people you admire have dealt with adversity. Apply their strategies to your situation. Reach out to those and ask for advice.
7. Take Action
Even small steps forward can help build momentum and resilience. Focus on what you can control and act accordingly.
Remember, overcoming adversity often leads to personal growth and can make you stronger. It’s about using the situation as a learning opportunity to improve and move forward.
