The Two Faces of Resilience: Bending and Holding Firm

Written By Amanda Campbell

We speak a lot about resilience as an ability to bend without breaking, to flow with life’s challenges. But what about those moments when bending feels like giving in? When life gives us a brick wall, what defines our response? Is it the brick wall, or our way of approaching it?

Resilience is the tough determination to go on, where it's easier to give up.

It's doing what's needed to move ahead, not just with brute strength but with the courage to find possibility in challenge.

It might very well be that with a positive attitude, we are then able to approach our challenges with grace, transforming what had been a wearisome battle into a transcendent act of endurance. It's in those moments of doubt when our true character shines through and our strength gets tempered. It prepares us for life's inevitable challenges—helping us not only get through the storm, but emerge stronger.

It might go against the principle “bending like bamboo,” but in effect, it’s the root system that makes the bending possible. It is soft and flexible on the stalk but deeply rooted on the ground coming up with a rock-solid foundation.

Blake’s perspective reminds us that true resilience is not only the grace to bow where we must but the power to stand where it matters most.

Stress can be very good for us, to grow. Science shows that it is how we recover from inevitable challenges that matters, leading to a happier life.

How are you managing stress and boosting resilience in your life?

Watch the full conversation on archetypes and authentic resilience here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2OKhNv7EXjg

Get your free resilience toolkit & my Resilience formula here: https://www.bendlikebamboo.com/signuptoblb

Get in touch with Blake

Insta: @blake_collyer1

Twitter: @BlakeCollyer

Linkedin: Blake Collyer

Facebook: Blake Collyer

Connect with Amanda
Amanda Campbell is a Sports Kinesiologist, Speaker, and Author who helps CEOs and leaders build resilience to thrive through life's challenges. She hosts the Bend Like Bamboo Resilience Podcast and offers programs designed to maximise performance whilst reducing stress and preventing burnout.

You are welcome to book a complimentary discovery call to explore how we can work together: ​https://calendly.com/amanda_campbell_/15min?month=2025-01​

 

Speaking & Events: Amanda delivers wellness workshops and keynotes both in-person and virtually. To book: hello@amandacampbell.com.au | www.amandacampbell.com.au

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Amanda Campbell
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