We all have the capacity to grow and develop our resilience.
Bonnie Benard, the renowned resilience researcher, once defined certain circumstances in our environment that can help boost this growth organically. In particular, Benard highlighted several protective factors, including caring relationships, meaningful participation, and high expectations. Frequently, they’re cited as required elements for developing resilience in children and youth.
But the same protective factors apply to adults—to our teachers, our support professionals and our school leaders. These factors, developed via our interactions with one another, establish conditions that will either support our growth or hinder our resilience. Stop for a minute and consider your current work environment. How many of the following do you currently experience at work?
