We often hear that the one true constant in life is change. But we don’t talk enough about how to manage constant change. Health coaches know firsthand that the single biggest skill that enables clients to adapt, persevere and thrive through change is resilience. Resilience has never been more important than now for today’s workforce, helping employees navigate today’s rapidly evolving world, from economic uncertainty to technological advancements and shifting workplace dynamics.
Just like gratitude, resilience is a behavior that needs to be practiced. It’s a tool that REAL health coaches teach employees to tap into when they need it most and that becomes more accessible the more it’s employed. So what really is resilience? How do health coaches help their clients create a self-sustaining well of resilience that they can tap into each time they need to? In today’s blog, we take a closer look at resilience and how health coaches empower individuals to cultivate this essential skill.
What is resilience and why is it important?
The American Psychological Association defines resilience as the ability to adapt to especially challenging circumstances, “through mental, emotional and behavioral flexibility.” Simply put, resilience is the ability to overcome. It’s the capacity to survive and even thrive through adversity. What’s more, resilience isn’t about avoiding life’s difficulties, but rather, about developing the skills and mindset to face them head-on. It’s a dynamic process that can be cultivated through intentional practices such as self-awareness, stress management, and maintaining a support network (more on this later).
Expectedly, resilience can have an impressive impact on longevity and long-term health. Some studies have found that higher levels of mental resilience have been associated with a reduced risk of all-cause mortality. Others showed resilience can lower overall healthcare utilization and enhance self-rated health. We’ve always said healthy employees are also happier and more productive. Resilience plays a major role in those outcomes. Not only does resilience have an impact on health and wellbeing, but also on the ways we show up to work. Some studies have shown resilience can have a positive impact on both work engagement and job satisfaction.
Resilience doesn’t just benefit individuals—it’s a powerful driver of organizational success. In the workplace, resilient employees are better equipped to handle change, meet deadlines, and manage stress effectively, which contributes to a more positive and productive environment. Teams with higher resilience also tend to communicate more effectively, collaborate with ease, and maintain focus during periods of uncertainty, which can make a world of a difference given shifting priorities and external pressures.
How do health coaches empower resilience?
Health coaches play a pivotal role in teaching employees how to build and tap into resilience regularly. REAL health coaches get to know individuals one-on-one – they seek to understand their existing skills, resources and goals just as well as their ongoing challenges. YourCoach human health coaches are excellent active listeners, helping employees reframe challenges through self-awareness and strategize on the best approach. They work closely with them to incorporate stress management techniques, develop boundaries, ask for help when it’s needed, and engage in healthy routines.
Health coaches also empower employees to view setbacks as opportunities for growth, fostering a growth mindset rooted in adaptability and optimism. By celebrating small wins and building on strengths, they help individuals create a strong foundation of confidence and self-efficacy – which provide a healthy, positive feedback loop that in turn bolsters resilience for the future. Through consistent support, actionable strategies, and compassionate guidance, health coaches help employees build a self-sustaining reservoir of resilience that they can draw upon not just during difficult times, but as a lifelong resource for thriving in a constantly changing world.
As workplaces continue to adapt to hybrid models and employees are continuously tasked with navigating global uncertainty, fostering resilience is no longer optional—it’s essential for long-term success. REAL health coaches build deep relationships with employees that inform personalized approaches to creating resilience that benefits them in and out of the workplace. Especially as we gear up for a new year, there’s never been a better time than now to explore how to bring REAL health coaching to your organization. Message us at team@yourcoach.health to set up a call to learn more.