12 uncommon traits of highly resilient people 

Resilience is a vital quality that allows individuals to bounce back from adversity and thrive despite life’s inevitable challenges. 

Highly resilient people possess unique characteristics that enable them to withstand setbacks and come out stronger on the other side. 

While some traits of resilient people are well-known, there are several lesser-known attributes that are equally important. 

In this article, we’ll explore 12 uncommon traits of highly resilient people that you may not have heard of before.

1) Embracing vulnerability

One of the most uncommon traits of highly resistant people is how they embrace vulnerability.

Instead of seeing it as a weakness, they view it as a catalyst for growth and personal development

You see, by embracing their vulnerability, they allow themselves to connect with others on a deeper level and foster genuine, supportive relationships.

Being open about their struggles and insecurities not only helps resilient people find solace in shared experiences but also encourages others to confront their own vulnerabilities. 

This creates a circle of trust and understanding, which ultimately strengthens their resilience and ability to face life’s obstacles.

2) A healthy detachment from outcomes

Another uncommon trait of highly resilient individuals is that they don’t cling to specific outcomes or become overly attached to their goals. 

Put simply:

They recognize that life is unpredictable and that things don’t always go as planned!

Instead of obsessing over the results, they focus on the process and take joy in the journey itself.

Ultimately, this detachment from outcomes allows them to adapt and adjust to new circumstances without feeling defeated or overwhelmed. 

They are more likely to stay motivated and engaged, even when the path ahead is uncertain because they find satisfaction in the act of moving forward, regardless of the end result.

3) Celebrating small victories

While society often places emphasis on grand achievements, highly resilient people understand the importance of celebrating small victories.

This is another uncommon trait they possess. 

They recognize that progress comes in many forms, and even the tiniest steps forward are worth acknowledging.

By celebrating these small successes, they build momentum and maintain their motivation, even when facing setbacks or obstacles. 

This mindset enables them to remain positive and focused on their goals, making them more likely to overcome challenges and persevere through difficult times.

4) Embracing change as a constant

Highly resilient people accept change as an inevitable part of life. 

They recognize that nothing stays the same forever, and they are prepared to adapt and grow as circumstances evolve. 

So, instead of resisting change or fearing the unknown, they view it as an opportunity for growth and personal development.

This openness to change allows them to be more flexible and adaptable, helping them to navigate the ups and downs of life with greater ease. 

And by embracing change as a constant, they are better equipped to face uncertainty and remain resilient in the face of adversity.

5) Willingness to ask for help

Contrary to the popular belief that resilient people are self-sufficient and independent, they often possess a strong willingness to ask for help. 

They recognize that seeking assistance from others is not a sign of weakness, but rather a testament to their resourcefulness and determination to overcome challenges!

The truth is…

Highly resilient people value the insights and support of others, knowing that collaboration and shared wisdom can lead to more effective solutions. 

When asking for help, they show their commitment to personal growth and their ability to recognize their own limitations, which ultimately strengthens their resilience.

6) Nurturing a growth mindset

body language with confidence and power 12 uncommon traits of highly resilient people 

One of the lesser-known traits of highly resilient people is their dedication to nurturing a growth mindset

They believe that their abilities and intelligence can be developed through hard work, perseverance, and learning from setbacks. 

Put simply, they see challenges as opportunities for growth, rather than threats to their self-esteem.

With this mindset, they develop a hunger for learning and an eagerness to embrace new experiences. 

This continuous growth empowers them to face adversity with confidence and determination, strengthening their resilience and increasing their likelihood of success.

7) Active listening skills

Another uncommon trait of highly resilient individuals is that they possess strong active listening skills, which enable them to better understand and empathize with others. 

By paying close attention and truly hearing what others have to say, they can gain valuable insights and perspectives that help them navigate life’s challenges more effectively.

Active listening also helps to foster deeper connections and stronger relationships, providing a support network that can be critical during times of adversity. 

By honing their active listening skills, resilient people not only enhance their own resilience but also contribute to the well-being and resilience of those around them.

8) Embracing solitude

This next point might come as a surprise – highly resilient people tend to embrace solitude. While many people associate resilience with social support and connectedness, there is power in finding comfort in one’s own company. 

Resilient individuals know the importance of taking time for themselves to reflect, recharge, and gain perspective.

You see, by embracing solitude, they can tap into their inner strength and develop a deeper understanding of their own needs and desires. 

This self-awareness allows them to make more informed decisions and face challenges with a greater sense of clarity and purpose.

9) Cultivating gratitude

Even in the face of adversity, highly resilient people maintain a practice of gratitude

They actively look for the positive aspects of their lives and express appreciation for the blessings they have, no matter how small. 

This practice helps them to maintain perspective and stay grounded in the present moment, even during difficult times.

Cultivating gratitude not only enhances their overall well-being but also increases their resilience by fostering a sense of optimism and hope. 

The bottom line is, by focusing on the good in their lives, they are better able to navigate challenges and maintain their emotional equilibrium.

10) A sense of humor

One might not immediately associate a sense of humor with resilience, but highly resilient people often use humor as a coping mechanism during tough times. 

They can find lightness and laughter even in the face of adversity, which helps them to maintain a positive attitude and keep things in perspective.

By not taking themselves too seriously and using humor as a way to diffuse tension and stress, resilient individuals are better equipped to handle life’s challenges and stay grounded amidst the chaos.

11) Establishing healthy boundaries

Resilient people also understand the importance of establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries in their personal and professional lives. 

By setting limits and clearly communicating their needs, they protect their well-being and ensure that they have the energy and resources needed to persevere in the face of adversity.

The truth is, healthy boundaries also allow resilient individuals to prioritize their own self-care, which is critical for maintaining emotional balance and cultivating resilience. 

12) A commitment to self-care

Finally, highly resilient people prioritize self-care and make a conscious effort to nurture their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. 

They recognize that they can only perform at their best and face life’s challenges if they are taking care of themselves first.

Self-care can take many forms, such as:

  • Regular exercise
  • Healthy eating 
  • Spending time in nature
  • Meditating 

By making self-care a non-negotiable part of their lives, resilient people ensure that they have the energy, clarity, and focus needed to tackle obstacles and emerge stronger on the other side.

As you can see, the traits of highly resilient people extend beyond the typical attributes we often hear about. 

By embracing these uncommon characteristics, you can develop greater resilience and better equip yourself to face life’s inevitable challenges with strength, grace, and determination!

Picture of Kiran Athar

Kiran Athar

Kiran is a freelance writer with a degree in multimedia journalism. She enjoys exploring spirituality, psychology, and love in her writing. As she continues blazing ahead on her journey of self-discovery, she hopes to help her readers do the same. She thrives on building a sense of community and bridging the gaps between people. You can reach out to Kiran on Twitter: @KiranAthar1

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