Growing from Adversity: Finding Strength in Difficult Times

Hey Reader,

During the past two weeks, I've been confronted with adversity, culminating in a series of painful events. While it's too early for me to speak publicly about what happened, I've been exploring mental resilience and how to grow from adversity.

The Power of Response

We cannot control what happens to us, but we can respond to it. Growing from adversity is essentially responding within our locus of control instead of reacting to what life throws at us.

To respond well, we need to take three simple actions:

1. Identify What Happens

First, we must clearly see and acknowledge the reality of our situation. This means facing it directly, without denial or minimization.

2. Understand Why It Happens

Next, we need to gain perspective on the causes and context of our challenge. This understanding helps us separate what we can and cannot control.

3. Respond Fully to the Event

Finally, we must take deliberate action within our sphere of influence, focusing our efforts on what we can change rather than what we cannot.

Learning from Experience

When schools were closing due to the COVID pandemic, I was two months away from my final exams of my secondary education. I identified the uncertainty of when schools would reopen and when exams would be held. I understood that those decisions were in the hands of politicians—hence, out of my control. Despite the uncertainty, I committed to intense daily learning sessions from home. I showed up each day until the exams were held, completing them with great success.

These principles don't always need external events of the magnitude of pandemics. Maybe the bus is late, a friend doesn't answer a text, or we have an off day at work. To grow from adversity, we need to show up consistently: identify, understand, and respond fully.

Building Resilience Over Time

Maybe we miss one opportunity, but if we apply those three principles, we will get back on our feet. And over time, adversarial events shift from happening to us to happening for us: We grow.

Each challenge we face becomes a stepping stone rather than a stumbling block. With practice, our mental resilience strengthens, making us better equipped to handle future difficulties.

Your Turn

I have one question for you: Where do you need to take responsibility in your life?

Pick one event this week, apply the three principles, and let me know how it goes.

Remember, it's not about avoiding adversity at all costs—it's about transforming it into an opportunity for growth.

Thanks for reading and until next week,

Jesse