How does social support contribute to building resilience?

In an era of unprecedented global challenges, the ability to bounce back from adversity has become a critical skill. But how exactly does social support contribute to building this resilience? With 85% of employees reporting that workplace relationships significantly impact their overall job satisfaction and performance, understanding this link is more crucial than ever for organizations.

To explore this vital topic, we’ve gathered insights from three expert contributors, including Rob Hosking, an international TEDx motivational speaker and former front-line Police Officer. Our experts bring diverse perspectives on how social support fosters resilience, from enhancing emotional well-being to providing practical assistance in times of need.

As we delve into their insights, common themes emerge around the power of connection, the importance of community, and the role of positive relationships in building resilience. Join us as we uncover how social support can be leveraged to build stronger, more resilient teams and individuals in today’s fast-paced business world.

Let’s begin with our first expert’s take on this crucial subject.

Rob Hosking

Rob Hosking, an international TEDx motivational speaker and former front-line Police Officer, explains how social support contributes to building resilience. According to Hosking, “The connections that we have in our lives are key, whether that’s personally or professionally.”

Social support plays a crucial role in resilience by:

1. Decreasing stress levels: Hosking cites a doctor’s experience during the Covid pandemic, where support from senior management reduced his stress from a 10 to an 8.
2. Providing diverse sources of strength: Both personal and professional relationships contribute to resilience.
3. Enhancing inner fortitude: While internal strength is important, external connections significantly boost resilience.

Hosking emphasizes that resilience isn’t solely an individual trait but is strengthened through connections with others. He states, “We can actually become more resilient in our most challenging of times by connecting with others.” This insight is particularly valuable for organizations looking to build resilient teams that can adapt quickly to evolving challenges.

For event planners and decision-makers, Hosking’s perspective underscores the importance of fostering strong social connections within teams and organizations. By prioritizing relationship-building and support systems, leaders can enhance their team’s overall resilience and ability to navigate challenging situations.

As we explore the multifaceted nature of resilience, let’s consider how other experts like Diane Hamilton might build upon Hosking’s insights to provide a comprehensive understanding of this crucial skill in today’s fast-paced business world.

Diane Hamilton

Dr. Diane Hamilton, a renowned expert in emotional intelligence and behavioral science with nearly four decades of experience, offers a unique perspective on how social support contributes to building resilience. As the creator of the Curiosity Code Index® and author of four best-selling books, Dr. Hamilton emphasizes the role of psychological safety and trust in fostering resilience through social support.

Social support acts as a safety net that bolsters resilience, particularly during challenging times. Dr. Hamilton’s research on emotional intelligence highlights that when individuals feel connected to empathetic and encouraging others, they are better equipped to navigate workplace setbacks. This connection allows employees to share concerns without judgment, strengthening their ability to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity.

Dr. Hamilton’s insights uniquely focus on the importance of building trust and psychological safety within organizations. These elements, she argues, make it easier for individuals to lean on one another and recover from setbacks. By fostering an environment where employees feel safe to express themselves and seek support, organizations can enhance their collective resilience. This approach aligns with Dr. Hamilton’s work on curiosity and innovation, suggesting that a supportive social environment not only builds resilience but also encourages creative problem-solving and adaptability in the workplace.

Building on the perspectives of the previous speaker, Dr. Hamilton’s insights underscore the critical role of emotional intelligence in leveraging social support for resilience. Her emphasis on trust and psychological safety provides actionable strategies for leaders looking to create a more resilient workforce through enhanced social connections.

Devon Harris

Devon Harris, a three-time Olympian and founding member of the legendary Jamaican Bobsled Team, brings a unique perspective on how social support contributes to building resilience. His experience as both an elite athlete and a graduate of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst provides a powerful lens through which to view this crucial topic.

How does social support contribute to building resilience according to Devon Harris?

According to Devon Harris, social support is essential for building resilience as it provides a safety net, offers encouragement, and creates a sense of community. He emphasizes that resilience is not a solitary endeavour but is forged through connections with others.

Harris draws parallels between his Olympic bobsledding experience and the broader concept of resilience. He highlights that even in seemingly individual pursuits, success is a team effort. Just as he relied on his teammates when pushing the bobsled, individuals facing challenges can lean on their support network. This perspective underscores the importance of intentionally building a supportive “tribe” that fuels rather than drains one’s energy.

A key insight Harris offers is the reciprocal nature of social support. He suggests that providing support to others not only strengthens their resilience but also reinforces one’s own belief in what’s possible. This two-way street of support creates a positive feedback loop, enhancing resilience for all involved. Harris’ advice to reach out, connect, and lean on others while allowing them to lean on you provides actionable steps for building resilience through social support.

Harris’s unique blend of military discipline and Olympic-level teamwork brings a fresh perspective to the discussion of resilience. His emphasis on the collective nature of resilience complements previous speakers’ insights, reinforcing the idea that true strength comes from standing together rather than alone.