Mental resilience at any age remains paramount in a world focused on youth and vitality. Our recent “Mind My Age” episode featured the remarkable Dr. Kate Lund, a licensed clinical psychologist, performance coach, and TEDx speaker with over 15 years of experience. Her insights offer a beacon of guidance for aging gracefully and resiliently.
Understanding Resilience
Dr. Lund delves into the essence of resilience, not merely as the ability to bounce back from adversity but as a mindset interwoven into our daily lives. “How do we build that resilient mindset?” she asks. “It’s about integrating the factors and characteristics of resilience into our everyday context, allowing us to flourish regardless of external challenges.” Her passion for resilience is rooted in her journey as a clinical psychologist and her personal experiences. As a child, she battled hydrocephalus, teaching her to find the extraordinary within the ordinary—a core aspect she believes is vital for resilience.
The Path to Resilience: A Shared Human Experience
“What is the common thread?” Dr. Lund explores and emphasizes that resilience is about understanding one’s unique context and believing in possibilities. She highlights, “Not comparing ourselves to others is key,” urging individuals to gauge their growth from within. She suggests focusing on daily positives for those overwhelmed by challenges, recommending a simple yet powerful practice: the daily wins exercise. We shift focus from negativity by noting three to five things that went well, helping maintain perspective and hope. 
Crafting New Normals and Finding Joy
“Finding our strengths and passions is a journey,” Dr. Lund insists. The goal for older adults facing transitions like retirement or health challenges is to establish a new normal. Cultivating interests and social connections is pivotal, whether through community activities or rekindling old hobbies. The discussion around social media’s influence on older adults is particularly pertinent. “Encouraging small steps,” she advises, can guide individuals toward balance and allow technology to be a positive force rather than a limiting one.
Learning and Curiosity: Anchors of Growth
Dr. Lund encourages embracing curiosity, which can inject purpose and meaning into life. Exploring new activities or cultural events fosters this, allowing for renewed passions and connections—a concept essential in her therapeutic approach. Dr. Lund states, “Using our strengths to flourish and maximize potential is crucial.” She emphasizes curiosity as a powerful tool for uncovering life’s hidden joys and fostering an enduring sense of purpose.
A Roadmap to Resilience
With insights from her book “Bounce,” Dr. Lund reflects, “Holding onto optimism and focusing on what’s going well are key principles.” These ideals support resilience across all ages, urging individuals to believe in possibilities beyond current challenges. Dr. Kate Lund’s conversation is a testament to the transformative power of resilience. By integrating her insights into daily life, we can uncover the extraordinary within the ordinary. 
Related Resource
For those inspired by this conversation, visit Total Life to discover resources that promote healthier aging and mental well-being. Remember, it’s never too late to start taking care of your mental health and staying engaged. Take this inspiration and explore ways to strengthen your mind and body, ensuring a resilient future.
