Resilience is the "positive adaptation within the context of significant adversity" (Luthar et al. 2000). Resilience always includes the exposure of adversity or risk and a positive adjustment outcome (Masten 2001).  Contrary to popular belief, resilience is not a fixed trait or skill that one either has or lacks. It is defined by how you respond to negative events, manage them, and potentially grow from them.

Everyone faces adversities in their work lives. Some challenges are easy to overcome, while others seem insurmountable or catastrophic. Common advice in such situations includes phrases like, "You learn from your mistakes," "You'll grow stronger," and "Everything will be fine." However, these platitudes rarely provide clear steps or a path to follow. Achieving a positive outcome requires understanding the adversity, making necessary adjustments, and navigating the involved processes. Given the complexity and importance of this, a structured and conscious approach is essential.