Stop and think about yourself for a few minutes before you read this. Try to answer:

Do you believe in your capability?

Do you think you are strong enough to overcome from the simplest to the worst things?

What comes to your mind when you think of the worst situation? Try imagining how your mind would be in that hypothetical moment.

Well, humans have a strong survival instinct: We have a deep-seated drive to survive and protect ourselves from harm. This instinct kicks in during challenging situations, allowing us to persevere and overcome obstacles that we may have initially thought were insurmountable. Even in the face of extreme adversity, we have the ability to tap into this survival instinct and find the strength to keep going.

➲ We are capable of growth and learning: Our brains have an incredible capacity for growth and learning through something called Neuroplasticity, that helps the brain improving neuro-transmissions and learn more from what we already know. We are constantly taking in new information and adapting to new environments, allowing us to develop new skills and expand our knowledge. This ability to learn and grow means that we are capable of overcoming challenges that we may not have been prepared for in the past.

➲ We have a strong support system: Many of us are fortunate enough to have a network of friends, family, and loved ones who provide us with emotional support and encouragement. This support system can be a valuable source of strength, helping us to overcome difficult times and stay motivated in the face of adversity.

➲ We can develop mental toughness: Mental toughness is the ability to stay focused and resilient in the face of adversity. This trait can be developed through intentional practice, such as through challenging physical or mental activities, meditation, or other forms of mindfulness. By cultivating mental toughness, we can increase our ability to handle stress and overcome difficult situations.

➲ We are capable of finding meaning in difficult experiences: Even when we are faced with difficult or traumatic experiences, we have the ability to find meaning and purpose in them. This can help us to see the situation in a more positive light and find the strength to move forward. Research has shown that people who are able to find meaning in their experiences are more likely to experience post-traumatic growth.

➲ We have a natural resilience: Human beings are naturally resilient creatures, able to recover from setbacks and difficult situations. Research has shown that many people who experience traumatic events are able to bounce back and recover, often experiencing personal growth as a result of their experiences. This natural resilience means that we are much stronger than we may initially think, even in the face of significant challenges.

Overall, our strength comes from a combination of our resilience, adaptability, positive thinking, support system, and experiences. When we tap into these sources of strength, we may surprise ourselves with what we are capable of achieving. 

Why do I underestimate myself?

There are several reasons why people may underestimate themselves. Here are a few possibilities you may relate:

🅐 Past experiences: If you have experienced failures or setbacks in the past, you may be more likely to underestimate your abilities. These experiences can create negative beliefs and self-doubt that can linger and affect your self-esteem.

🅑 Comparison with others: If you tend to compare yourself with others, you may feel that you fall short in some way, which can lead to underestimating yourself. Keep in mind that everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses, and it's not productive to compare yourself to others.

🅒 Fear of failure: Sometimes, people underestimate themselves as a way to protect themselves from the possibility of failure. If you don't set high expectations for yourself, you may avoid the disappointment and embarrassment that can come with failure.

🅓 Lack of confidence: If you lack confidence in your abilities, you may underestimate yourself. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as past experiences or a lack of positive feedback from others.

If you find that you are consistently underestimating yourself, it may be helpful to reflect on the underlying reasons and work on building your self-esteem and confidence. You can start by setting small goals for yourself and acknowledging your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. It can also be helpful to focus on your strengths and skills and remind yourself of the value you bring to the table. Finally, consider seeking support from friends, family, or a mental health professional if you are struggling to overcome negative self-talk and self-doubt.

But how do I improve my resilience?

Improving resilience requires intentional effort and consistent practice. Here are some ways to challenge yourself and improve your resilience:

⦾ Set realistic goals: Set achievable goals and work towards them. It will help you develop the habit of accomplishing tasks and increase your confidence in your ability to overcome obstacles.

⦾ Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness can help you stay grounded and focused in the present moment, allowing you to better manage stress and anxiety.

⦾ Take care of your physical health: Exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, and avoid unhealthy habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. A healthy body can better handle stress and challenges.

⦾ Learn to adapt: Life is full of unexpected changes and challenges. Learning to adapt to new situations and find solutions can help build resilience.

⦾ Cultivate a positive mindset: Focus on the positive aspects of situations and practice gratitude. This can help you build resilience by changing your perspective and reducing stress.

⦾ Seek support: Build a support network of family, friends, or a therapist. Having a strong support system can help you feel more confident and resilient when facing challenges.

Remember, building resilience is a process that takes time and effort. Consistently practicing these habits can help you develop the skills to bounce back from difficult situations.