Positive psychology studies by researchers such as Dr. Barbara Frederickson at the University of North Carolina show that the cumulative effects of negative emotion, when not countered with positive, can make you less likely to bounce back from setbacks and challenges.  So, especially in rocky economic times, it is essential that you have a practical, every day plan to boost your resilience.  The following are a few proven ways to do just that:
 
1.      Be intentional about inducing positive emotion.
What brings you joy? Who makes you laugh? What's your favorite pastime? Incorporating people and things into your life that make you feel good can build up your emotional reserves. Positive emotion is like making a deposit in your emotional bank account. Over time, it builds up. When negative events make an emotional withdrawal, your emotional reserves will help you handle the stress.

 

2.      Avoid unnecessary stress.
What stress are you under that you have the power to eliminate?  If there are activities that you simply no longer have time for or friendships that drain you, it's time to speak up and make some changes.  Likewise, if lack of planning causes every day to be spent putting out fires that could have been easily prevented, it's time to get organized.  Unavoidable stress is inevitable.  Don't pile on avoidable stress, too.

 

3.      Develop a support system.
Make friends by being a friend. But just as you help others, don't be afraid to ask for or receive help. Whether it's a listening ear, someone's who's willing to babysit for a night so you can have some "me" time, or other types of help, a life that is balanced is one that doesn't just give, but also receives.