Resiliency is defined as an object’s ability to return to an original form or position after being bent, compressed or stretched. When this definition is applied to a person, it gives us a clue as to why some people recover quickly after illness or injury. It can even help describe why some people age well while others do not. This more scientific definition helps us understand why resiliency is nothing more than your own margin for error in life. The greater margin for error you have, then the less likely something catastrophic will occur.

However, for this definition to be useful, we must have an understanding as to what makes a person resilient. Are there tried and true methods in making a person more resilient? Discussing resiliency in an object is quite easy. You just have to understand the characteristics of the object in question. Understanding what make a person resilient is a very complicated discussion because of the multifaceted nature of being human.

Resiliency in humans is not just a physical characteristic. It’s comprised of emotional (psychological), mental (cognitive), social (relationships), and spiritual characteristics.

Each characteristic of human resiliency impacts the others. Understanding the interplay of the five different aspects helps in understanding a person’s true resiliency. The patterns of resiliency in others can offer valuable clues on how we can all become more resilient and age well. Continue Reading to discover how to improve your resiliency.