3 qualities of super resilient people | Shaka Senghor | Big Think

TL;DR

Resilience is a choice that involves acknowledging obstacles, finding coping strategies, and maintaining hope in order to overcome adversity.

Transcript

The things I learned about resilience through my time in prison is that human beings, I believe, by nature are very resilient, and often times we don’t recognize our own resiliency until we’re faced with obstacles and circumstances that challenge us and pushes us. And it looks different for everybody. When I think about my journey in prison I went ... Read More

Key Insights

• 😀 Resilience is a natural human quality that emerges in the face of obstacles and challenges.
• 💨 Prison experiences can push individuals to be resourceful and find ways to cope and survive.
• 🧑‍🚒 Resilience involves making choices, including the choice to not give up and to fight for a second chance.
• 🙂 Inspirational figures and reading materials can inspire resilience by offering hope and reminding individuals of the light at the end of the tunnel.
• 👻 Optimism plays a significant role in resilience, allowing individuals to maintain a positive mindset and belief in a better future.
• 🦻 Being resourceful and identifying supportive elements within one's environment aid in navigating adversities.
• 💌 Letting go of past memories and focusing on the present and future is essential for building resilience.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does resilience manifest in prison environments?

In prison, resilience becomes a survival skill as individuals find ways to cope and navigate through adversities such as solitary confinement. People become resourceful and adapt to the challenging environment to ensure their well-being.

Q: What role do inspirational figures and literature play in fostering resilience?

Inspirational figures like Nelson Mandela and Malcolm X, as well as reading autobiographies, provide a source of hope and inspiration for individuals facing difficult situations. These stories remind them that there is light at the end of the tunnel and motivate them to persevere.

Q: Why is optimism crucial for building resilience?

Optimism is an integral part of resilience as it allows individuals to maintain a positive mindset amidst adversity. Believing in the possibility of a better outcome and focusing on a purpose rather than the pain helps one endure and overcome challenges.

Q: How does "memory loss" contribute to resilience?

"Memory loss" in this context refers to letting go of past memories and experiences that no longer serve a purpose or hold one back. By releasing the emotional attachment to the past, individuals free themselves to focus on moving forward and becoming more resilient.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Resilience is a natural human trait that is often discovered when faced with challenging circumstances and obstacles.

• Prison experiences, including long-term solitary confinement, can force individuals to find ways to cope and survive.

• Resilience is a choice and can be inspired by others, literature, and the belief in hope as a guiding light.