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Are there any disadvantages to being highly resilient?

Janey Knewstubb

There is a commonly held belief that being highly resilient is an unmitigated good, and that those with high levels of resilience can overcome any obstacle. However, there are a number of potential disadvantages to being highly resilient that are often overlooked.

One of the primary drawbacks of high resilience is that it can lead to a tendency to minimize or dismiss the seriousness of problems. When faced with a challenge, a highly resilient person may be more likely to adopt a can-do attitude and minimize the significance of the issue at hand. This can be both a blessing and a curse; while it may help the person stay positive and maintain a sense of control in difficult situations, it can also prevent them from fully acknowledging the gravity of a problem and taking appropriate action.

Another potential disadvantage of high resilience is that it can mask underlying issues. Someone who is very resilient may be able to keep pushing forward in the face of adversity, but this can also prevent them from addressing the root causes of their problems. For example, a person who is highly resilient may be able to soldier through a tough job or relationship, but they may not be addressing the underlying issues that are causing these problems in the first place. In the long run, this can lead to serious problems that are much more difficult to address.

High resilience can also lead to overconfidence and a lack of caution. When someone is very resilient, they may feel invincible and more willing to take risks that others would avoid. While this can lead to great successes and heroic acts, it can also result in reckless behavior or choices that are ultimately detrimental. A person who is highly resilient may be more likely to take on too much work, for example, or to engage in physically risky activities without proper precautions.

Finally, high resilience can lead to a lack of emotional depth. When someone is constantly pushing forward and focusing on overcoming obstacles, they may be less likely to engage in introspection or meaningful self-reflection. This can lead to a certain emotional shallowness or a lack of empathy for others. It may also make it difficult for highly resilient people to relate to those who are struggling or suffering, as they may see these people as weak or unable to cope.

In conclusion, while high resilience can be an incredibly valuable trait, it is important to acknowledge that there are also potential drawbacks. Those who are highly resilient should be aware of these potential disadvantages and take steps to mitigate them, such as seeking out counseling or therapy, practicing mindfulness and self-reflection, or seeking out the advice of trusted friends and advisors. Ultimately, high resilience is only one part of a healthy and fulfilling life, and it should be balanced with other important qualities like emotional intelligence, empathy, and self-awareness.