Are You Really Resilient, or Just Pushing Through? Why Traditional Resilience Training Misses the Mark for High-Achieving Women with Autoimmune Conditions

Written By Amanda Campbell

Imagine being told your body is failing you, that a diagnosis like Multiple Sclerosis means a life in a wheelchair.

For high-achieving leaders, navigating the tightrope of demanding careers, autoimmune conditions, and chronic stress, such news can feel like a devastating blow to identity and ambition.

You're brilliant, driven, and committed, yet the traditional narrative of "bouncing back" rings hollow when you're teetering on the edge of burnout.

I know this journey intimately because it’s my story.

My journey from paralysis and despair to remission and renewed vitality showed me that sustainable performance isn’t about ignoring pain or pushing through exhaustion. It’s about accepting what is, reconnecting to joy, and directing our restored heart energy toward healing—not just survival.

After a moment of unexpected joy shared with loved ones, my toe began to move. That moment taught me resilience isn’t about fighting the storm, but learning to flow with it—like bamboo.

Over the past 15 years in remission, my greatest challenge has become my greatest gift. I’ve rebuilt a life where healing and performance work together, grounded in one truth: when stress dominates, inflammation and illness worsen. But when we shift our state—through evidence based pillars of movement, mindset, and self-compassion—we activate the body’s natural pathways of growth and repair.

For CEO's and leaders navigating relentless demands while feeling their bodies falter, true resilience begins with listening inward—honouring your body’s signals, letting go of limiting stories, and gently redirecting your energy toward healing and lasting success.

If you’re ready to rewrite your resilience story, start by embracing choice and acceptance today.

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

Listen to my podcast episode with Matt from Identity of Health for more life-changing insights. Watch the full, inspiring conversation here: https://youtu.be/e-mFKQHhiZ0?si=jqPD1Fqv4L0lUl9D

Connect with Matt Rowe

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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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The Two Faces of Resilience: Bending and Holding Firm