Where Does Resilience Come From? Can it Be Learned?

Resilience is the ability to bounce back from adversity and cope with stress and challenges. It is a skill that can help us overcome difficulties and achieve our goals. But where does resilience come from? Is it something we are born with or something we can learn?

The answer is both. Resilience is influenced by a combination of factors, including our genes, our environment, and our choices. Let's look at each of these factors in more detail.

• Genes: Some people may have a genetic predisposition to be more resilient than others. For example, some studies have found that people who have a variant of the gene that regulates serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in mood and emotion, tend to be more resilient to stress and depression. However, genes are not destiny. They only account for a small percentage of the variation in resilience among individuals.

• Environment: Our environment plays a significant role in shaping our resilience. This includes the physical, social, and cultural aspects of our surroundings.

Here are 4 examples of environmental factors that can foster resilience:

1. Having supportive and caring relationships with family, friends, and mentors

2. Having access to resources and opportunities for learning and growth

3. Having a sense of belonging and identity in a community or group

4. Having a positive and optimistic outlook on life and the future

Resilience is not a fixed trait that we either have or don't have. It is a dynamic process that can change over time and across situations. It is also not something that we can achieve on our own. It requires the interaction of our genes, our environment, and our choices.

The good news is that resilience can be learned and developed at any age and stage of life. By understanding the factors that influence our resilience and applying the strategies that can boost it, we can become more resilient and live happier and healthier lives.