The Power of Strength: Why the Focus Should Be Strength, Not Resilience

Recently, I revisited Angela Duckworth’s research on grit while considering the paramount skill young people need to succeed in life. While digital literacy, leadership, confidence, and resilience are valuable, I believe the most crucial skill is strength.

As educators, developing strength in our students offers profound advantages over solely focusing on resilience. While resilience is crucial for overcoming adversity, strength empowers young people to proactively face challenges, remain strong and excel in various aspects of life.

Physical strength, cultivated through activities like sports and exercise, not only enhances physical health but also fosters discipline, determination, and self-confidence. These strength attributes extend beyond the sporting arena, translating into improved academic performance, better stress management, and a positive mindset.

We will no doubt witness multiple examples of this type of strength during the Olympics and Paralympics.  Athletes pushing themselves, at times beyond their perceived limits, with strength of mind and courage, but also athletes who use their strength to manage their own disappointment when their performance does not attain the desired result.

Emotional strength, such as emotional intelligence and mindfulness practices, equip young individuals with essential tools to navigate the complexities of social interactions, effectively regulate their emotions, and cultivate healthier relationships. Students can develop their emotional strength by actively listening to their peers during group-based activities, understanding different perspectives, and responding empathetically. Furthermore, mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing or meditation, can help students manage examination stress by staying calm, focused, and having perspective. These skills not only enhance student mental well-being but also reduce the severity of setbacks, minimising the need for resilience to recover from obstacles.

Then there’s cognitive strength, which measures students' ability to think critically, analyse situations, and make informed decisions. This kind of strength can equip young people with the capacity to view obstacles as opportunities for growth rather than barriers to success. In today’s fast-paced world, where innovation is key, cognitive strength is more valuable than ever. For students, developing cognitive strength means being prepared for jobs yet to be conceived. It’s about learning how to learn, being curious, and staying adaptable. It’s about nurturing a mindset that’s not just receptive to new ideas but is eager to explore and experiment. This kind of strength transforms challenges into opportunities and turns uncertainty into a landscape of potential.

Focusing on strength rather than resilience isn’t just about surviving; it’s about thriving. It’s about preparing young people not just to handle adversity but to excel in the face of it. So, let's shift our focus. Let’s build a generation that’s not just resilient but truly strong. This shift in perspective will empower the next generation to not only navigate the complexities of our world but to shape it with confidence and creativity. By cultivating strength, we are investing in a future where young people are not just prepared for the unknown but are excited by it, ready to lead with boldness and innovation.