When people hear resilience, they often imagine the most memorable moments: standing up in the face of tragedy, rebounding after losing a loved one, or persevering through times of stress. What I’ve discovered is that resilience isn’t a thing that’s built during a storm. It’s constructed long before the storm comes.
The resilience of a person is built by little, tiny, everyday decisions.
The reality is that the habits you form during your day-to-day activities are what help you overcome the most difficult challenges. When you put off until the moment of crisis to build resilience, you’ll run empty. If you develop resilient habits now, your soul will be much more secure.
Why Rhythms Matter More Than Routines?
I used to believe that “rhythm” and “routine” were the same thing. However, there’s a distinction.
Routines are tasks that must be completed. They’re all about productivity. Rhythms represent patterns, which bring life. They’re about being present.
Anyone can come up with any routine. However, resilient rhythms flow smoothly and do not just grind. They allow space for God, rest, and even for joy. They’re less concerned with doing, and more with aligning with the things that matter most.
3 Resilient Rhythms That Changed My Life
Three rhythms that I’ve incorporated into my daily life that have helped me stay grounded throughout the day, as well as in the toughest seasons of life.
The Rhythm of Reflection
I have set aside a time each week to reflect on where I felt God’s presence. What did I feel drained of? What brought me joy? Where can I grow as a husband and father? The process of reflection transforms experiences into wisdom. In the absence of it, we continue to make the same mistakes instead of taking lessons from them.
The Rhythm of Rest
This didn’t come easily at all. I used to associate relaxation with being lazy. When I discovered that God made rest a holy act, I began to view it as a necessity. Whether it’s a Sunday afternoon, simple walks through the park, or shutting off my cell phone, rest is a source of energy that surpasses physical needs; it strengthens my trust in God.
The Rhythm of Gratitude
Every day, I list three things I’m grateful for, regardless of how little. The gratitude shifts my attention away from the things I’ve lost to the things I have left. It shifts my perspective and helps me find joy in uncertain times.
What Rhythms Could Look Like for You?
It is interesting to note that research supports this. Psychologists affirm that resilience is not about avoiding difficulties, but about constructing mechanisms that can be used to cope with the challenges ahead.
When our daily rhythms force our hearts to slow down for a moment, take a break, and give thanks, we’re basically making the soil of our souls to ensure that God can build a strong foundation within us.
Your rhythms don’t need to appear like mine. Perhaps it’s
- A walk each day at sunset.
- Prayers for the morning, before the bustle begins.
- Recording your thoughts and worries.
- Worship music in the car.
- Picking one meal per day when you can be completely unplugged and with family.
It’s not about perfection, but rather consistency. Resilient rhythms won’t completely eliminate the difficulties, but they do make anchors that keep your balance as the waves increase.
Final Thought
Ask yourself, what rhythms are you creating right now? What anchors are you using to hold yourself in place when things seem to be slipping? If you’re looking to develop resilience before a storm hits, or even while in one, I invite you to join me on this journey. Get a copy of my book now and join me in building resilience the right way.