Life is short — and I don’t mean that in the cliché “Live, Laugh, Love” way that belongs on a distressed wooden sign at Hobby Lobby. I mean it in the way you feel it when life yanks the rug out from under you and the air feels too thin to breathe.

It has been one year since Eric died.

And in all the grief, the quiet moments, the ruminating I keep trying not to do, there’s this one truth that keeps coming back to me again and again:

Resilience is not about being unshakeable but is nurtured through everyday choices that enhance our strength, stress management, and connection to ourselves and others. Building resilience can be approached by setting small, achievable goals that celebrate personal wins, grounding ourselves with moments of mindfulness, and maintaining supportive connections with friends and family. These practices help create a foundation of small successes, allowing us to progress towards a harmonious and resilient lifestyle.

Focusing on building resilience involves making room for small, impactful actions. Even on demanding days, recognizing small wins, such as organizing a space or preparing a nutritious meal, can generate momentum and provide a sense of accomplishment. These simple acts accumulate, boosting our overall resilience without the need for overwhelming changes.

Mindfulness and self-compassion play vital roles in resilience, as pausing to breathe or reflect on a positive moment can ground us in the present. Staying connected with others provides essential support and reminds us that we are not alone in our journeys. By practicing self-compassion and reflecting on daily growth, we nurture resilience as a continuous journey guided by small, thoughtful steps forward.