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In today's episode, I’m joined by Dr. Alia Bojilova, a renowned psychologist and resilience expert, as we explore the complex and multifaceted nature of resilience. Drawing from her extensive experience wotking with the SAS in New Zealand and her new book, "The Resilience Toolkit," Dr. Bojilova shares her profound insights on resilience as a dynamic, necessary process rather than a fixed trait. We delve into the critical concepts of awareness, belonging, curiosity, and drive, while recounting gripping personal anecdotes, including Dr. Bojilova's intense experience of being taken hostage during her service in Syria. This discussion offers practical tools and rich perspectives on cultivating resilience in everyday life.

What You'll Learn:

Understanding Resilience: Dr. Bojilova debunks the notion that resilience is a fixed trait, describing it instead as an essential, ever-evolving process that must be nurtured.

Awareness and Attention: Discover the importance of being grounded in the present moment and having a clear direction. Learn to differentiate between alertness and awareness and how mindful attention can enhance resilience.

Belonging and Community: Understand the pivotal role of belonging, both to oneself and a larger community, in fostering resilience. Explore how shared values and connections with a tribe strengthen our ability to cope with stress.

Facing Challenges: Hear about Dr. Bojilova’s life-defining experience in Syria, which underscores the significance of staying composed and responsive under pressure.

Responding vs. Reacting: Learn strategies for developing the ability to respond to life’s challenges with intentionality rather than merely reacting.

 

Key Takeaways:

• Resilience is a Process: It's essential to view resilience as an ongoing journey that involves nurturing and developing through life experiences.
• Awareness is Key: Being present and clear about our goals is crucial. It requires intentionality in our responses to the challenges we face.
• Belonging Matters: A strong sense of belonging and shared purpose can significantly impact our ability to handle stress and adversity.
• Engage with Challenges: Embrace life's difficulties as opportunities for growth and development.
• Practical Tools for Resilience: Developing awareness and attention control, understanding your triggers, and building community connections are all practical steps toward resilience.

 

Resources

• For more on resilience and to purchase Dr. Bojilova's book, "The Resilience Toolkit," check your favourite local bookstore.
• Connect with Dr. Alia Bojilova on LinkedIn for updates and potential speaking engagements.
• Corporate inquiries can be directed to B2B Speakers, a speaking bureau in New Zealand.

Support the Podcast

By changing the narrative around resilience from a static attribute to a dynamic process, this conversation aims to empower listeners to better navigate their personal and professional lives. Share this episode with those who might benefit from a renewed perspective on resilience. Your engagement could inspire and spark meaningful change.

 

00:50 Parallels in Our Journeys

01:19 Growing Up in Eastern Europe

02:45 Discovering Viktor Frankl

03:33 Defining Resilience

07:34 A Life-Changing Experience in Syria

08:33 Surviving Hostage Situation

22:12 Lessons from the Ordeal

23:37 Writing the Resilience Toolkit

26:06 Veteran Mental Health and Debriefing

28:13 Reflecting on a Shared Experience

31:37 The Importance of Awareness

35:54 Mindful Attention and Cognitive Fitness

40:51 Responding vs. Reacting

45:52 Embracing Challenges and Building Resilience

51:09 The Role of Belonging in Resilience

 

 

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