Mentoring Challenge – Building Resiliency

Building Resiliency

What is resiliency? Resiliency is “the capacity to bounce back, rebound, and successfully adapt in the face of adversity.” It’s the ability to bounce back from problems with more power and hope. As mentors, we have the opportunity to help build resiliency in students. Here are three ways you can build resiliency in your student:

  • Be genuine…many students today think adults are fake. Being genuine means that we have to be committed to things like listening well, responding appropriately, and modeling empathy.
  • Be a good listener…listen and don’t give advice unless they ask. One question you could ask your student: do you just want me to listen, or do you want my input?
  • Be an encourager…believe in them even when they don’t believe in themselves. Help them focus on attainable goals. Ask them questions like, “What do you want to change?” or “Who would you like to become?”

Written by Jason, BTO Mentor