Authors:
Simon Dolan Landau
Professor and Chair of Human Resources at Advantere School of Management, Universidad Pontificia Comillas
Pedro César Martínez Morán
Director of the Master in Talent Management at Advantere School of Management / Associate Professor at the Faculty of Economic and Business Sciences, Universidad Pontificia Comillas
Published: July 16, 2024
In this article, we will focus on the types of resilience, understood as the ability to quickly recover from difficult situations, adversities, or challenges. Beyond recovery, resilience allows us to adapt, cope, and maintain a positive mindset in the face of adversity, stress, trauma, or significant life changes.
Resilience has a positive impact on mental health and can act as a buffer against chronic stress. Alongside coping skills, emotional regulation, optimism, social support, self-esteem, and self-efficacy, resilience contributes to maintaining a healthy mental state and preventing the development of chronic stress and its negative consequences.
The Four Types of Resilience
Resilience is not just about strength—it enables people to endure and learn from setbacks and obstacles, ultimately leading to personal growth and increased well-being. Four types of resilience can be identified, based on their stages, origins, and implications:
1. Physical Resilience
This is something people can improve to some extent by following healthy lifestyle guidelines. Getting enough sleep, maintaining a nutritious diet, and exercising regularly are just a few ways to strengthen this type of resilience. In general, physical resilience refers to how the body adapts to change and recovers from physical demands, illnesses, and injuries. There is a positive correlation between resilience and better physical health, and studies have explored how this type of resilience affects aging.
2. Social Resilience
Also known as community resilience, it involves the ability to recover from difficult situations collectively. Aspects of social resilience include a strong sense of community after disasters, wars, and conflicts. Spain exhibits a higher level of social resilience compared to other neighboring countries. Socially resilient communities have strong networks and relationships that foster cooperation and mutual assistance. Social resilience emphasizes the importance of collective action, empathy, and inclusion in building stronger, more interconnected societies.
3. Mental Resilience
Mental resilience refers to a person’s ability to adapt to change and uncertainty. Individuals with this type of resilience remain flexible and calm during crises. They use mental strength to solve problems, move forward, and remain hopeful even when facing setbacks. Mental resilience is a key quality that helps individuals navigate life’s obstacles with perseverance and determination, contributing to good mental health. It involves having a positive mindset, problem-solving skills, and the ability to see obstacles as opportunities for growth.
4. Emotional Resilience
Emotional resilience is the ability to manage and regulate emotions during difficulties. It involves being aware of emotions, expressing them appropriately, and effectively coping with stress. An emotionally resilient person can handle strong emotions such as anger, sadness, or fear without becoming overwhelmed. For example, if someone receives criticism at work, an emotionally resilient person can take a step back, reflect on the feedback, and respond constructively rather than becoming defensive or distressed.
Strengthening Resilience
Improving some types of resilience, such as mental and emotional resilience, involves developing a set of skills and strategies that help individuals recover from difficult situations, cope with stress, and adapt to adversity. It also requires a combination of self-reflection, self-care, learning new skills, and seeking support when needed. It is an ongoing process that can greatly contribute to overall well-being and the ability to face life’s challenges.
Sara faced the difficulties of the job market after finishing her university studies. She prepared for job interviews diligently, remained resilient, persevered, learned from various selection processes, and ultimately achieved her goal. Her mental and emotional strength helped her succeed.
