Presilience in Action: Strengthening the Habit of Emotional Readiness
"When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves." Viktor Frankl, MD, psychotherapist and author
In last week's blog, I introduced “presilience,” the proactive practice of cultivating resilience before adversity strikes. Even as physicians, selected and socialized to be “resilient,” we need to consistently hone these skills. Presilience is empowering, but how can we integrate it into our busy lives? The answer lies in small, consistent habits that strengthen our mental, emotional, and physical capacity to face challenges with grace and adaptability. Just as we prioritize preventive care for our patients, practicing presilience helps us prepare for inevitable rough patches in both personal and professional realms.
A few years ago, I faced a time when clinical demands, leadership responsibilities, and a significant health issue overwhelmed me. My “resilience threshold” was exceeded, and I didn’t know how to respond. These skills weren’t part of my medical training. The turning point came when I reevaluated my professional schedule and prioritized my health. I sought medical care, practiced meditation, ensured restorative sleep, reached out to colleagues, and reconnected with my sense of purpose. These small but deliberate actions didn’t erase my distress, but they gave me clarity and strength to navigate it. I wasn’t just bouncing back; I was bouncing forward, better equipped for both present and future challenges.
Research supports the importance of regular resilience-building practices. For instance, the Healthy Minds Program, developed by neuroscientist Richard Davidson, offers a free, evidence-based framework for improving emotional regulation and adaptability. The program emphasizes four pillars: awareness, insight, connection, and purpose—all of which can be strengthened through consistent attention. Activities like mindfulness meditation, gratitude journaling, and fostering meaningful relationships not only build resilience but also reshape neural pathways, enhancing our future ability to recover and grow through adversity.
Presilience mirrors what we already understand in medicine: prevention promotes health. Addressing stressors early and maintaining resilience-building habits creates a buffer against burnout. My journey underscored the power of connection in navigating challenges. Overcoming my natural tendency to isolate and instead ask for help was pivotal. The encouragement of my PeerRx buddies and other colleagues played a vital role, reminding me that community amplifies our strength and sustains us in this demanding profession.
This week, I challenge you to take one step toward building your presilience. Whether it’s a moment of mindfulness, checking in with a trusted colleague, or committing to restorative sleep, small actions matter. Share strategies with your PeerRx partner or a colleague, and explore what works for each of you. Together, we can foster a culture of readiness and support. Don’t wait for the storm to arrive—start building your presilience today. And when that storm does come, remember you don’t have to navigate it alone.