By Suleiman Tajudeen
… Continued from last week
CITIZENS COMPASS—Build resilience: Develop coping skills (Masten, 2001).
Foster connections: Nurture relationships.
Practice gratitude: Focus on positives (Emmons & McGrew, 2003).
Healthy lifestyle: Exercise, sleep, nutrition.
Mindfulness: Stay present, reduce stress (Kabat-Zinn, 2003).
Set realistic goals: Manage expectations.
Problem-solving skills: Address challenges proactively.
Limit comparisons: Focus on your own journey.
Digital balance: Manage tech use.
Early support: Address issues before they escalate.
Generally, building resilience for happiness involves cultivating a robust mindset that enables individuals to navigate life’s challenges with positivity and strength. In Nigeria’s context, this concept is deeply intertwined with community, culture, and personal practices. Community ties play a significant role in fostering resilience. Leaning on family, friends, and neighbors provides emotional support and practical help during tough times. For instance, in many Nigerian communities, communal efforts like “Esusu”, “Alajeseku”, or cooperative societies help individuals pool resources and support one another financially and emotionally.
Faith and cultural practices are also vital sources of strength. Many Nigerians draw comfort and hope from their spiritual beliefs and traditional practices, which offer a sense of connection to something larger than themselves. These practices can provide solace and guidance during difficult times. Engaging in creative outlets or meaningful work can bring joy and a sense of purpose, contributing to overall happiness. Whether it’s music, art, writing, or entrepreneurship, these activities provide avenues for self-expression and fulfillment. Holding on to traditions that give life meaning is another aspect of building resilience. Cultural traditions and values passed down through generations can offer a sense of identity and belonging, helping individuals stay grounded amidst challenges.
In Nigeria, examples of such traditions include celebrating festivals like Eid-el-Fitr, Christmas, or local cultural festivals, which bring people together and reinforce community bonds. By embracing these aspects, individuals can build resilience that fosters happiness that will enable them to thrive despite life’s ups and downs.
References
Diener, E. (2000). Subjective well-being.
Lyubomirsky, S., Sheldon, K. M., & Schkade, D. (2005). Pursuing happiness: The architectures of sustainable change. Review of General Psychology, 9(2), 111-131.
Seligman, M. E. P. (2011). Flourish: A Visionary New Understanding of Happiness and Well-being. Free Press.
World Happiness Report (2022)
For questions and medical consultations, contact: Dr. Suleiman Tajudeen, CEO and Director of Clinical Psychology, Clear Mind Psychological Consult, Km 15, Badagry Expressway, Ojo, Lagos. +234 803 402 4457
