Resilience is a Team Sport

If there’s one thing leaders know, it’s this: resilience isn’t an individual pursuit. You can’t will your way through every challenge or expect your team to power through without support. Resilient teams don’t just survive setbacks—they adapt, collaborate, and thrive in the face of uncertainty.

But right now, people are struggling. Burnout and mental health issues are costing the global economy $322 billion annually. Just last week, the mental health app Headspace reported a 1,790% spike in usage on November 6—a stark reminder of the emotional toll of current events.

Resilience isn’t automatic. It’s built through trust, shared purpose, and the ability to navigate challenges together. As a leader, you have a unique opportunity to create an environment where resilience isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the foundation of how your team operates.

This week, we’re focusing on what it takes to help your team face setbacks with strength, clarity, and connection.

4 Ways Leaders Build Resilient Teams

1. Be Honest About the Headwinds
   Resilient teams don’t need leaders who sugarcoat reality—they need leaders who model courage and problem-solving. When you’re transparent about the obstacles ahead and how you’re navigating them, you create a culture of trust and shared accountability.

2. Celebrate Adaptability, Not Just Results
   Resilient teams thrive when they know their efforts—especially in tough times—are valued. Shift the focus from only recognizing outcomes to celebrating the adaptability and creativity it took to get there. Did someone find an innovative way to manage a tight deadline? Did a team member step up to support a colleague under pressure? Highlight these moments to reinforce the behaviors that strengthen resilience.

3. Encourage Small Risks
   Resilience grows when teams feel safe to experiment and learn from mistakes. Encourage your team to take small, calculated risks, and frame failures as opportunities for growth. When people feel supported in trying new approaches, they’re more likely to develop the adaptability and confidence needed to face larger challenges.

4. Invest in Connection
   Connection is the foundation of resilience. Teams that trust and support each other can weather setbacks more effectively. As a leader, create opportunities for your team to bond—whether through regular check-ins, shared projects, or moments of informal connection. These relationships become a source of strength when times get tough.

Pre-Order Essential and Unlock Exclusive Bonuses

We’re thrilled to celebrate the upcoming release of Christie Smith’s new book with an exclusive offer for our community!

Essential: How Distributed Teams, Generative AI, and Global Shifts Are Creating a New Human-Powered Leadership is your guide to navigating the profound changes reshaping industries and workplaces today. Whether you’re an executive, entrepreneur, or manager, Essential equips you with actionable tools to lead with clarity, purpose, and humanity.

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How to Redeem:

• Orders of 10 or more: Submit to [email protected] (for smaller orders, you can order directly from your favorite retailer).

• To verify your purchase: Email a screenshot of your receipt to [email protected].

This opportunity is available for a limited time. Visit smith-monahan.com to learn more and reserve your copy today.

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