In counseling vernacular, there is a term thrown around that I have had on my mind a lot lately: Protective Factors.  

Protective Factors are probably exactly what you’re imagining – factors that protect people in times of challenge and increase their resiliency.  The more protective factors one has, the greater the likelihood that they can deal adaptively with what life throws their way. 

A list I use when assessing these factors with needful clients is one tailored from my counselor toolbox and G. Windle. I like it because it puts them into 6 specific categories.

Are you game, with me, to take a sort of inventory on our own protective factors today?  Maybe we can spot some areas we need to beef up in our own resiliency. 

Strengthening and reinforcing our individual protection is life-long work – for me, and I suspect, for you, too.  Work worth doing. 

Social support

• Do you have the ability and opportunity to talk about your problems to someone in your life?
• Do you have people in your life (ideally a group or community) that you can ask for practical help (i.e. a ride if your car breaks down)?
• Do you have people in your life with whom you experience love?
• Do you have people in your life with whom you experience consistent friendship?

Coping skills

• Do you have the ability to manage unhelpful thoughts and uncomfortable emotions in a healthy way (i.e. without turning to unhealthy outlets)?
• Do you have an awareness of your own thoughts and emotions and do you recognize how they influence your behavior? 

Physical health

• Do you get adequate exercise or physical activity for your body?
• Do you practice healthy sleep habits for your individual need?
• Do you have access to and choose a balanced and healthful diet for your body?
• Are you medically compliant (i.e. have access to and schedule regular medical and dental check-ups, take your medications and/or supplements as prescribed)?

Sense of purpose

• Do you feel a meaningful connection with your involvement in your work, education, service, or other roles (i.e. a cause you love, an interest you’re cultivating, your role in parenting or grandparenting, etc.)?
• Do you have an understanding of what you personally value and are you living in accordance with what you value?
• Do you have a resolute and resolved relationship with your idea (or non-idea) of a higher power (i.e. something in your universe bigger than you)?

Self-esteem

• Do you believe you have value – just the way you are?
• Do you accept your personal flaws, weaknesses, and mistakes?
• Do you acknowledge (at least to yourself!) your personal strengths, talents, and victories?
• Do you believe in your ability to overcome challenges?

Healthy thinking

• Are you able to not ruminate on your mistakes, personal flaws, or problems?
• Do you have the ability to consider your personal strengths and your personal weaknesses rationally?
• Do you have a daily practice of gratitude or awareness (i.e. prayer, meditation, mindfulness)?

The American Psychological Association says “While certain factors might make some individuals more resilient than others, resilience isn’t necessarily a personality trait that only some people possess. On the contrary, resilience involves behaviors, thoughts, and actions that anyone can learn and develop.”

I can’t wait to hear about how you did.  And if you need help with any of the 20 things on this list, I’d love to help. I can think of nothing better. 

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