Sometimes we prepare everything for a future that never becomes a reality. If there’s one thing I know about being childless, it’s that it can be a wild ride. Unsolicited advice, pregnancy announcements, overwhelming feelings, and questions about life. In this article I’ll share 10 strategies to stay resilient in the face of adversity.
Traveling to 40+ countries and working on four continents has taught me to approach life (and business) with resourcefulness and resilience. But, nothing could have prepared me for involuntary childlessness. The rollercoaster of emotions is hard to grasp for the outside world.
Nowhere could I find women who understood the challenges I was facing, so I went through most of it alone. I figured out how to thrive and made it my life’s mission to help others do the same. Now, let’s talk about resilience…
Why is it important to be resilient?
Being resilient means that you are able to adapt to difficult situations, developing a sense of personal strength, and having the ability to bounce back from adversity. Resilience also increases self-efficacy and self-confidence, and it can help people develop better problem-solving skills. Additionally, it can help people build stronger relationships, as they are better able to handle conflict and remain calm in the face of difficult situations.
What are the key components of resilience?
Resilience is the ability to adapt to and recover from stress, difficulties, and change. It’s a measure of how well you are able to cope with difficult or traumatic events and still maintain healthy functioning. Resilience is often thought of as a protective factor, meaning it serves to protect you from being overwhelmed by stress or trauma.
The key components of resilience are:
- Adaptability: the ability to adjust to changing circumstances, adapt strategies, and make use of available resources.
- Self-awareness: the capacity to recognize and understand one’s own emotions, thoughts, and behaviors.
- Self-care: the practice of taking care of oneself to maintain physical, mental, and emotional health.
- Problem-solving: the ability to identify problems and develop creative solutions.
- Optimism: the belief that things will get better and the ability to maintain a positive outlook.
- Support networks: the ability to create and maintain relationships with people who can provide emotional and practical support.
How can I manage stress and build resilience being childless-not-by-choice?
To develop resilience in yourself, it is important to practice self-care, build a network of support, focus on positive thinking, practice problem-solving skills, take time for yourself, and set realistic goals. Additionally, developing a good understanding of your values, strengths, weaknesses, and emotional triggers can help you to identify your triggers and use them to your advantage. Let me share with you a practical clear list of 10 strategies to stay resilient in the face of adversity.
What strategies can I use to stay resilient in the face of adversity?
There are a few strategies that can help you manage stress and build resilience
- Develop a positive mindset and look for solutions to any problem.
- Establish a support system of family, friends and professionals who can provide emotional and practical support. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when needed.
- Engage in self-care and set aside time for activities that bring joy and relaxation.
- Develop a realistic attitude about life and accept that hardships are part of it (this one is hard!).
- Practice communication and problem solving skills to more effectively manage difficult situations and relationships.
- Establish routines and structure, including regular sleep and exercise habits
- Keep a journal to express emotions and practice gratitude
- Challenge negative thoughts and reframe them into more positive ones.
- Set realistic goals and break larger goals into smaller achievable steps.
- Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as meditation and yoga.
- Connect with women who get you and support and who are also childless-not-by-choice in my FREE Women’s Circle
How can I help someone build resilience when they are childless-not-by-choice?
If you stumbled upon this blog, because your daughter, sister, or friend is childless-not-by-choice, thank you! I acknowledge you for taking the time to find ways to support her. I can give you a full list, but actually, there is just one thing to do: listen without judging (and without giving unsolicited advice!)
What resources are available to help me build resilience in the face of adversity?
There are many resources available to help build resilience, including online classes, books, podcasts, and articles. Additionally, there are many support groups available, including my Walking & Hiking Retreats – exclusively for women who are childless-not-by-choice.
