Feeling Good as a Path to Resilience

The world often feels like it’s moving at an exhausting pace. Uncertainty, unrest, and division seem to ripple through our news feeds, our conversations, and even our thoughts. It’s easy to feel swept up in the chaos, absorbing the fear and frustration around us.

But lately, I’ve been thinking about this:
What if choosing to feel good is one of the most radical and resilient acts we can take in times like these?

This isn’t about ignoring the challenges we face. It’s about anchoring ourselves in what truly brings us joy and balance, even when the world feels heavy. It’s about cultivating a well of resilience we can draw from to show up as our best selves—for ourselves, our loved ones, and our communities.

Returning to Basics

This week, with one of my kids sick, I found myself needing to get back to the basics. I consciously chose to step away from the constant scroll, the endless updates, and the noise. Instead, I focused on small, joyful moments.

I called up friends who make me laugh. I danced in my kitchen to a favourite song. I allowed myself to truly savour my morning tea, to soak in the simple pleasure of a quiet moment.

What I realized was this:
When I choose joy, I not only lift myself up but also show up better for the people I care about.

Joy as a Path to Resilience

In a world that often encourages us to hustle, stress, and stay distracted, pausing to feel good might feel indulgent—or even rebellious. But the truth is, joy and balance are powerful sources of resilience.

When we consciously make space for what lights us up, we create a foundation that allows us to better handle life’s challenges. Feeling good is not about dismissing hardship; it’s about grounding ourselves so we can face those hardships with greater clarity and strength.

Try It With Me

What would it look like to choose joy today? To set down your phone, step away from the noise, and do one small thing that lights you up?

Here are a few things that have brought me joy and balance recently:

🎶 A song that had me dancing around my house

🧘‍♀️ A yoga practice guided by my beloved teacher to a drumbeat that grounds me

🌬️ A pranayama (breath) practice that I turn to when I need balance and a deep reset

In the banner above is a moment from a recent walk along the Humber River near my home in Toronto. The leaves were ablaze with fiery autumn colours, and for a moment, I just stood still, taking it all in.

It reminded me that even in a chaotic world, beauty is always around us—if we pause to notice.

Your Turn

 What small act of joy can you choose today?

💫 Pick up a cozy book and sink into it.

💫 Put on a favourite song and dance like no one’s watching.

💫 Sit quietly and let gratitude fill your heart.

In a world that encourages stress and distraction, let’s reclaim our power to feel good. Let’s make joy a radical, intentional choice—and in doing so, build resilience that sustains us and the people we care about.

Ready to Reframe Resilience?

In the Certified Resilience Coach Program, we reframe resilience as something deeply human and sustainable. It’s not just about bouncing back—it’s about cultivating habits and practices that allow you and your clients to thrive, even in uncertain times.

You can still join the Winter session of the program until Friday, January 31st, 2025 and the Spring session will begin in April 2025.

Learn more about the program here.

Let’s reclaim joy, build resilience, and show up fully—together.

Love,

Monica