Resilience involves responding positively to difficult and stressful situations, but as demands increase, people experience pressure. Some are far more resilient and “bounce back” from negative emotional experiences. They benefit from a mindset that allows them to deal more effectively with setbacks and disappointments. Understanding key facets of resilience helps clarify how positive attributes could be developed. New insights relating to stress management increase resilience training and improve resilience at work.

Before, discussion relating to resilience has tended to focus on facets of the individual’s personality. However, this really is only area of the picture. Whilst inner resources are important, we also need to consider the context, and the demands people face in their work. Many people are vulnerable to work pressure and it’s important that these risks are reduced to a minimum. resilience coaching course

Management Standards

The UK Health and Safety Executive HSE have put down clear management standards, focused on five important conditions that affect people’s well-being. A key area of the manager’s role would be to minimize experience of these pressures. The five areas identified by the HSE connect with work demands, individual control, positive relationships, role clarity, and consultation relating to change. If individuals are confronted with excessive work demands, or role requirements are not clear, or they have little chance to exercise choice and discretion (control) over how they work, they will quickly experience pressure.

Positive work relationships, including support from others and involvement in discussing change, help create an enabling work environment. Ongoing dialogue between managers and team members contributes to positive outcomes.

Resilience Training

Individual attributes associated with resilience include resourcefulness and self-confidence when up against setbacks. An optimistic mindset is characterized with a willingness to master and grow from both negative and positive experiences. That is helped when people have an obvious sense of purpose and believe activities meaningful. A setback may represent a disappointment, however it can be an opportunity to gain insight and develop a new approach. This process can be strengthened when people experience support and encouragement from others.

Resilience training helps people put things in context and also develop important personal attributes. They become more able to handle work pressure. Part of the process involves becoming more self-aware and reflective. This helps in identifying positive response options. The more effective mindset includes responsiveness to feedback and adjustment to new requirements. That is along with the self-awareness required to remain calm and respond in an expert manner.

Feedback, training and support from others help develop essential skills. This process also contributes to greater self-sufficiency, so people have the competence and confidence to see control and make decisions. Meaning and a sense of shared purpose also contributes to an even more optimistic outlook and greater persistence, which supports in overcoming challenges.