By Brenda Dickerson
We hear much these days about the need for resiliency. In our high-burnout society, women who lead are especially vulnerable. What exactly is resiliency, and how do we increase it?
Resiliency can be defined as the ability to pivot, change, or adapt to new situations. Resilience is largely about attitude and having a healthy view toward change processes. A number of personal characteristics enable resiliency, including:
- Flexibility
- Self-confidence
- A positive outlook/hopeful mindset
- Well-developed problem solving skills
- A willingness to embrace change
- Personal strength based on one’s faith
People who have “stress-hearty” personalities realize what has to be done, and they do it right then. They look for the opportunities in every situation and choose to be involved in them.
Some practices that are foundational to increasing resiliency are taking time for soul-care, setting appropriate boundaries, managing stress in healthy ways, and practicing positive daily affirmations.
Here are additional practical ways of increasing personal resilience:
- Laugh
- Be creative
- Set goals
- Choose a positive attitude
- Focus on good health
- Focus on healthy relationships
- Find balance
- Believe in yourself
- Remember, it’s temporary
- Be aware of your feelings
- Identify what you CAN control
- Anticipate what’s coming next
- Celebrate your efforts and your progress
Leadership isn’t a solo sport; it’s iron sharpening iron—voices in community shaping how we think, decide, and serve. Good leaders start by looking within—examining mindset, habits, and blind spots—then learn alongside others who are building teams, navigating change, and refining their craft.
—Brenda Dickerson is associate director of Communication for the Mid-America Union, editor of OUTLOOK magazine, and AWL Committee Member. Republished with permission from the November 10, 2025, Adventist Women Leaders email newsletter. Photo by Look Studio of Unsplash.
