Much research has been conducted lately on the topic of resilience. In short, the findings suggest that learning to be resilient is an important factor in leading a happy and fully functioning life. So much so, in fact, that this resilience and life experience overshadows genetics over time.

With that in mind, it seems that helping our kids learn how to take a risk or handle a mistake – and letting them handle it without our help – can be a big part of how we, as parents, educators and coaches can give our kids a boost on the road to independence and happiness.

Most of the students I work with don’t have to worry about their basic necessities – but they are all challenged by some aspect of learning or social skills. And so it’s helpful for me to remember that each young adult will benefit by taking on new experiences, and by realizing that there will always be some bumps in the road. After all, it’s the bumps that lead to learning, and the learning that brings positive experiences many times over.

Here are 2 videos to enjoy on this topic:

The Power of Resilience
(10 minute TED talk)

The Landfill Harmonic Orchestra
(4 minute video)