Photo by James Patrick

Pick up the Spring 2024 issue of ICON/REFINED Magazine featuring Jenn Drummond.

In a world where achievement often feels like a non-stop rollercoaster ride, Jenn Drummond, the epitome of ambition and resilience, offers a refreshing perspective on success and self-discovery. From conquering the Seven Second Summits to navigating the complexities of motherhood and entrepreneurship, Jenn’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of embracing the present moment and finding joy in the journey.

Now, she’s sharing her top tips for building unwavering resilience, proving that with the right mindset and approach, anyone can overcome life’s challenges and emerge stronger than ever. In her own words, here’s how Jenn embraces intentional living, mindfulness, and holistic well-being, and she reveals how you too can conquer anything life throws your way.

Resilience Defined

To me, “resilience” is the capacity to withstand life’s inevitable challenges and setbacks while maintaining one’s core integrity and purpose. It’s not just about bouncing back from difficulties; it’s about growing through them, learning valuable lessons, and emerging stronger and more adaptable. Resilience is a dynamic process of negotiation with oneself and the world, requiring both flexibility and steadfastness.

Here are my top three tips for cultivating resilience, drawn from my own experiences as a mother of seven, a world record holder, and a successful business owner.

Embrace a Growth Mindset: One of the foundational aspects of resilience is the belief that you can learn and grow from every situation. A growth mindset encourages you to see challenges as opportunities to expand your abilities and knowledge, rather than as insurmountable obstacles. When faced with setbacks, instead of asking, “Why me?” ask, “What can I learn from this?” This shift in perspective makes you more adaptable and better equipped to navigate future adversities.

Build a Supportive Network: Resilience is often portrayed as a solitary trait, but it’s deeply rooted in connections with others. Building a supportive network of family, friends, and mentors who can offer encouragement, advice, and a listening ear is crucial. These relationships provide a safety net that can catch you when you fall and help lift you back up. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support when needed, and be that support for others when you can. The exchange of empathy and understanding strengthens communal resilience, making each member stronger.

Prioritize Self-Care and Mindfulness: Resilience isn’t just about enduring; it’s about how you endure. Regular self-care practices, including physical activity, adequate rest, healthy eating, and mindfulness exercises, can enhance your physical and emotional resilience. Mindfulness, in particular, helps you stay present and aware, reducing stress and anxiety. It teaches you to observe your thoughts and feelings without judgment, which is invaluable when facing challenges. By taking care of your body and mind, you ensure you have the energy and clarity needed to tackle obstacles effectively.

Bonus Tip!

Accept and Adapt: Recognize that change is an inevitable part of life. Resilience involves accepting this reality and being willing to adapt as necessary. This doesn’t mean giving up on your goals but rather being flexible in how you pursue them. Sometimes, the path to achieving your dreams takes unexpected turns, and resilience is about navigating these turns with grace and determination.

These tips are not just abstract concepts but practices that have been integral to my journey. They’ve helped me navigate the complexities of raising a large family, setting records, and running a business. Resilience is about cultivating a deep inner strength that allows you to face life’s storms with courage and emerge not just unscathed but enriched by the experience.