Lessons learned from a poorly chosen sledgehammer

Prickly problems demand well-equipped problem solvers. And gearing up with the right tools and resources can make all the difference in the world.

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When dealing with adversity, accessing complementary supports goes a long way. Consider a 2022 study where 2,300+ healthcare workers engaged in various well-being activities, such as yoga and meditation. Engaging in those activities was significantly associated with greater emotional thriving and recovery, highlighting the value of using available tools and resources. 

Reflection questions

1. What personal tools — like strengths, skills or coping strategies — do you already have that help you manage difficult situations?
   
2. What external tools or resources (e.g., apps, books, support groups, professionals) have helped you in the past? How did you find them?
   
3. What’s one challenge you’re currently facing? What tools or resources could you explore to support yourself through it?
   
4. Have you ever overcome something by using a resource you didn’t initially think would help? What did that experience teach you?
   
5. Do you find it easy or difficult to seek out and use tools or support systems? Why do you think that is?
   
6. What are some small, simple tools or habits that make a big difference in your daily well-being? How consistent are you with using them?
   
7. How comfortable are you with embracing new tools or asking for guidance in using them? What helps you stay open to trying something unfamiliar?
   
8. What’s one resource you’ve heard of but haven’t tried yet that could potentially support your well-being? What’s stopping you?
   
9. Think about someone you admire who seems resilient. What kinds of tools or resources do you think they use to stay grounded or get through tough times?
   
10. If you could create a personal “toolbox” for your mental, emotional or physical wellness, what would you put in it?

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Turn ideas into action with these suggested activities from our Resilience Toolbox.

More modules

Module 1. Making your own luck: Lessons learned from a coin flip

Module 2. Improving adaptability: Lessons learned from an absurd Christmas tree

Module 3. Embracing teamwork: Lessons learned from a rogue haybale

Module 4. Leveraging tools: Lessons learned from a poorly chosen sledgehammer

Module 5. Learning humility: Lessons learned from a very brief career as a valet

Module 6. Failing forward: Lessons learned from banshee babies and buttered butts

Module 7. Avoiding shortcuts: Lessons learned from a giant backpack

Module 8. Redefining success: Lessons learned from an idiotic bet

Module 9. Letting go: Lessons learned from a gooey pit of clay

Module 10. Taking responsibility: Lessons learned from trying to catch a train

Module 11. Getting creative: Lessons learned from the toboggan hill

Module 12. Fuelling motivation: Lessons learned from sleeping in a barn

Module 13. Handing over control: Lessons learned from riding in a shopping cart

Module 14. Practising gratitude: Lessons learned from a very special list

Module 15. Prioritizing self-care: Lessons learned from a surprise birthday celebration in the hospital

Module 16. Creating lasting change: Lessons learned from life’s awesome and absurd moments