My 10-year-old son came home from footy training recently absolutely pumped after kicking three points in a practice match.
When I asked why he was so excited, he turned around and said:
“Every point gets me closer to kicking that goal.”
I was blown away by the perspective and asked him where that came from.
“That’s what the coach tells us. Even if we miss, we keep trying until we get it.”
Simple advice. But powerful.
It stuck with me, not just as a parenting moment, but as a leadership one. Because in business, I see plenty of “points” being kicked… yet I also see many people stop trying before the goal arrives.
Right now, the need for resilience has never been greater.
The Changing Nature of Work
We’re navigating a workplace environment shaped by rapid change:
- AI transforming how work gets done
- More flexible and remote ways of working
- The very real pressure many people are feeling from rising costs of living
The pace is exciting — but it can also be exhausting.
Which raises an important question for leaders and organisations: how do we continue to build resilience in people while the ground beneath work keeps shifting?
What Resilience Really Means
Resilience isn’t about being immune to stress, pressure, or uncertainty.
It’s the capacity to adapt, recover, and keep moving forward, even when things don’t go to plan. Like those missed shots at goal.
Resilience is a capability that develops over time. It grows through experience, reflection, and support from the people around us. Setbacks are part of the process, not a sign of failure.
When I reflect on resilient individuals in workplaces, teams, and everyday life, a few common habits tend to stand out.
Habits of Resilient People
They Maintain Perspective
Resilient individuals focus on the details while still keeping sight of the bigger picture. This prevents them from getting stuck on minor setbacks and helps them stay focused on long-term outcomes.
They Stay Open to New Ideas
In a world where technology, work patterns, and expectations are constantly evolving, curiosity becomes a critical strength. Resilient people remain open to feedback and new approaches.
They Recognise Their Blind Spots
Self-awareness is a powerful resilience skill. Rather than fearing criticism, resilient people treat feedback as useful information that helps them prepare for what lies ahead.
They Seek Support
No one navigates change alone. Whether it’s mentors, colleagues, or professional support, resilient individuals understand that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.
They Create Space for Reflection
In an increasingly busy and digitally connected world, resilient people make time to pause, reflect, and reset. These quiet moments often provide clarity and renewed energy.
They Invest in Relationships
Strong connections matter. Resilient individuals actively build and maintain relationships, recognising that trust and support networks become essential when challenges arise.
They Plan for Multiple Possibilities
Change is inevitable. Resilient people prepare for different outcomes and remain flexible enough to pivot when circumstances shift.
They Prioritise Wellbeing
Energy management matters. Sleep, movement, boundaries, and self-care are not luxuries — they are foundational to sustaining performance over time.
They Lead with Empathy
Resilient people recognise the human side of change. They understand that others may be navigating pressures we cannot always see and approach situations with compassion.
They Create Space for Creativity
Creative thinking often emerges when we step away from routine pressures. Whether it’s writing, music, problem-solving, or simply thinking differently, creativity fuels adaptability.
They Practise Positive Self-Talk
Resilient individuals acknowledge mistakes but don’t dwell on them. Instead, they focus on what they can learn and where the next opportunity lies.
They Practise Gratitude
Even in challenging circumstances, resilient people find ways to recognise what is working, what has been learned, and what still lies ahead.
Continuing to Take the Next Shot
Resilience isn’t about perfection.
It’s about continuing to show up. Continuing to adapt. Continuing to take that next shot.
Just like my son’s coach told the team that night on the field: every point gets you closer to the goal.
