Growing Because of Adversity

Resilience is often thought of as being able to endure hardships, but did you know that it also includes the ability to grow and be better because of it? The key is being able to come out better on the other side! 


Elementary Lesson

The “Doing” Of Resilience

Instructions: Watch this encouraging TED Talk about the role our mind plays in helping us to become “better” because of adversity and answer the following questions.

  1. What is the main “ingredient” to becoming better after adversity?

  2. How did this play out for Michael Jordan?

  3. Write out five things you currently say to yourself when you are facing a difficult time.

  4. Talk to a friend you trust to identify one thing you want to do or think differently in order to develop resilience.


Secondary Lesson

A Surprising Story of Resilience

Instructions: Take a look at the amazing story of J.K. Rowlings and reflect on the following questions.

  1. What surprised you about J.K.’s story?

  2. Write about two things that inspired you and why.

  3. Think about a time in your life when you have desperately wanted to give up or felt misunderstood. What did you do? Share this story with an adult you trust.

  4. What are three things you can do differently over the next six months to grow as a result of your struggles?