Theory of Everyday Resiliency

Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe's "Theory of Everyday Resilience" dismantles the myth that resilience is solely about grit and pushing through extreme circumstances. Instead, she emphasizes that resilience is a set of everyday practices that enable us to navigate life's challenges with greater ease and strength. This provides practical strategies for building resilience through key pillars that focus on connection, perspective, and emotional regulation.

Key Items:

• Belonging: Cultivate Your Home Team

  • Build and nurture a strong support system of people who will be there for you, regardless of circumstances.

  • Provides a sense of security and reduces feelings of isolation during challenging times.

• Perspective: See the Big and Little Pictures

  • Develop the ability to see both the immediate situation and the broader context. 

  • Recognize that temporary setbacks don't define your overall journey. 

• Hope: Ignite Possibility Through Connection

  • Foster hope through small acts of kindness and connection. 

  • Trust that brighter days are ahead and focus on the potential for positive outcomes.

• Humor: Release Tension and Find Reprieve

  • Utilize humor, even dark humor, as a tool for releasing tension and reducing pain. 

  • Laughter triggers the release of hormones that provide a moment of reprieve and allow you to respond rather than react.

• Emotional Regulation: Activate Your Soothing System

  • Learn to activate your soothing system to counter the threat response triggered by stress.

  • Recognize the importance of recovery and rest to prevent burnout.

Action Items:

1. Build a "Belonging-Focused" Client Community

2. When dealing with client concerns or setbacks, reframe the situation by emphasizing the long-term goals and potential solutions.

3. Prioritize team well-being by incorporating humor, empathy, and emotional regulation techniques into team meetings and interactions.

ONE Thing to Remember:

Everyday resilience is built through intentional practices that focus on connection, perspective, and emotional regulation. By cultivating these qualities, you can navigate uncertainty with greater strength and create a more fulfilling life.