We’ve all heard the saying, “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger,” but what are these experiences that make us stronger?
That’s what we cover today. We dive into seven struggles that, if you’ve faced them, make you more resilient than most. How many have you experienced?
Let’s find out
1) Financial struggles
Financial struggles can be incredibly challenging.
I remember a time in my life when I was barely making ends meet. Paycheck to paycheck, scraping together enough pennies for rent, let alone food for the week. It was a stress unlike any other.
But here’s what I learned: it was during these tough times that I found my resilience. An inner strength that I didn’t even know I had.
I learned how to budget, how to save, and most importantly, how to persevere even when the odds seemed stacked against me. I discovered my creativity in trying to make ends meet and developed an iron will that surprised even me.
If you’ve also experienced financial struggles and found a way out of them, you’ve probably got a resilience that’s hard-won and well-deserved.
2) A toxic work environment
Navigating a toxic work environment is one of those struggles that can truly test your resilience.
I’ve been there, too—trapped in a job where the atmosphere was suffocating, and every day felt like a battle. The constant stress, the backstabbing, the lack of support—it all takes a toll on your mental and physical health.
But here’s the thing: getting through this kind of environment teaches you invaluable lessons. You learn to set boundaries, to stand up for yourself, and to recognize the importance of a healthy work-life balance. You start to understand the value of self-care and the necessity of finding a workplace that aligns with your values and respects your well-being.
Surviving a toxic work environment also hones your ability to handle stress and conflict. You become adept at navigating difficult conversations, managing your emotions, and finding ways to stay productive even in less-than-ideal circumstances. These skills are not just crucial for your career but also for life in general.
3) A health crisis
Facing a major health crisis, be it a personal illness or caring for a sick loved one, can be a daunting and emotional journey.
These experiences can drain you, physically and emotionally. The constant worry, the doctor visits, the treatment plans – it can all feel overwhelming.
But here’s the remarkable thing. If you’ve been through this journey and still kept your spirits up, you’ve demonstrated immense resilience.
You’ve shown that you can face adversity head-on and still come out strong. You’ve probably also learned to value health above all else and understand the power of hope and positivity in recovery.
4) Rejection
Rejection can sting, especially when it’s something you’ve poured your heart and soul into.
Maybe it was a job you really wanted, a relationship you were invested in, or a project you worked tirelessly on.
The pain of being told you’re not enough, not right, or not wanted is tough to swallow. But it’s in these moments of rejection that our true strength shines through.
5) Moving to a new place
Moving to a new city or country can be both exciting and terrifying. I remember when I packed up my life and moved across the globe. I didn’t know anyone, didn’t speak the language, and was stepping into a culture that was completely foreign to me.
It was one of the most challenging times in my life. I had to learn to navigate a new environment, make new friends, and adapt to an entirely different way of life.
But through that experience, I found a new strength within myself. I learned how to be comfortable with being uncomfortable and how to thrive in the face of uncertainty.
Have you moved to a new place and built a life there from scratch? If so, give yourself a pat on the back. You’ve shown that you can adapt and grow.
7) Discrimination or prejudice
Dealing with discrimination, whether based on race, gender, or sexual orientation, is a challenging experience that tests your resilience.
Discrimination forces you to develop a thick skin and a strong sense of self-worth. It teaches you to advocate for yourself and others, speak out against injustice, and strive for equality. This experience also fosters deep empathy and solidarity with others facing similar struggles.
Ultimately: It’s about growth
At the heart of resilience lies the capacity for growth. It’s not merely about weathering the storm, but learning how to dance in the rain.
The struggles we face in life, as challenging as they may be, often serve as catalysts for our personal evolution. Each trial we overcome is a testament to our inner strength and fortitude.
As you reflect on your journey, remember that each struggle has shaped you into the resilient individual you are today. Because it’s not about what happens to us, but how we respond to it that truly defines our character.
What would Marcus Aurelius say?
Unsure what to do next in your career? Struggling to move on from a failed relationship? Searching for more meaning in life?
Marcus Aurelius can tell you how to face your challenges in a more Stoic way.
Simply ask your question, and Marcus Aurelius will answer.
