How to Build Resilience When Life and Business Hit You Hard
We often hear about resilience as a trait — something you either have or don’t. After the week I just survived, I’m here to tell you: resilience is a muscle. It’s something you practice, build, and pull from when life hands you a season that tests every ounce of your energy.
This past week, I experienced the lowest of lows — losing our beloved family dog — and simultaneously faced the highest of highs — the biggest professional opportunity of my career. And in the middle of it all, I had a business to run, clients to serve, and three kids (plus three other dogs) depending on me.
So, how did I get through it? Not perfectly, intentionally.
Here’s what I learned — and what I hope will help you when life comes crashing in at the exact moment you need to be at your best.
1️⃣ Prioritize Ruthlessly
At the start of April, I knew things were going to be busy. I sat down and listed the top five things — no more — that had to get done over the next 30 days. Everything else? It could wait.
When my dog’s health declined unexpectedly, that list became my anchor. And when new, unplanned things (hello, life!) crashed in, I stayed focused on just the day’s top priorities. If I got those done, I called it a win.
Tip for you: Write down your true must-dos. Keep the list short, and let the rest go without guilt.
2️⃣ Ask for Help — and Accept It
I leaned on family and friends for rides, errands, and support. I relied on my team to pick up things I couldn’t handle. Even though I felt responsible for everything, I reminded myself: I don’t have to do this alone.
Tip for you: Delegating isn’t weakness — it’s strategy. When you’re stretched thin, don’t hesitate to tap into your network.
3️⃣ Stick to Your Resilience Playbook
Thursday arrived — the big day. I was scheduled for a four-hour VIP client session and an afternoon media interview with CBS News about mental health and resilience.
I woke up drained, unsure how I’d get through it. Then I remembered: I’d been here before. Years of corporate experience had taught me how to “turn it on” when I needed to, even when exhausted. I showered, dressed up, blasted music, and poured belief into myself. And it worked.
Tip for you: Reflect on past moments when you showed up under pressure. What worked? Bring that playbook back out and use it.
4️⃣ Know That You Can Be Both Grieving and Grateful
This week, I sat in deep grief and overwhelming gratitude at the same time. Life doesn’t pause because you’re hurting, and it also doesn’t take away your right to experience joy, pride, or success.
Tip for you: Give yourself permission to hold both emotions. You don’t need to “fix” your grief before you can move forward.
5️⃣ Stay Rooted and Look for Your Next Move
I love the basketball analogy here: when a player is stuck, they plant one foot (their pivot foot) and swivel around, looking for the next move — a pass, a shot, a path forward.
You can do the same. Even if you can’t charge ahead, you can stay grounded, lift your head, and look for what’s possible.
Tip for you: Stop staring at what’s blocking you and start scanning for what’s open. There’s always an option if you’re willing to pivot.
Final Thoughts
As we enter Mental Health Awareness Month, let this be your reminder: taking care of your mind and body is the most important business investment you can make. If you need help, ask for it. Seek professional support. Prioritize your wellness.
You are wise. You are strong. You are capable. And you are not alone.
If you want to learn more about my story of resilience, you can see the full CBS News interview on YouTube.
If you found this post helpful, I’d love for you to share it with someone who needs a little reminder today that resilience is within reach. 💛
