Talking about resilience in English.
This week in one of my conversation classes we looked at the subject of resilience. In life, challenges often come unannounced, leaving us feeling knocked down and disheartened. However, it is our resilience that helps us navigate through these turbulent times, emerging stronger and more determined than ever before.
Resilience is the ability to adapt and bounce back from adversity, challenges, or stress. It involves maintaining a sense of flexibility, optimism, and strength in the face of difficult situations.
Whilst it’s easy to pontificate on the values and virtues of resilience, it’s important to remember that it’s not possible to be completely immune to adversity, challenges or setbacks, especially if we are experiencing poverty, poor health or we lack support or face discrimination.
Just like in life, language learning is fraught with obstacles – whether it's mastering complex grammar rules, overcoming pronunciation challenges, or facing moments of self-doubt. However, by embracing the spirit of resilience, learners can transform setbacks into stepping stones towards linguistic proficiency.
Let’s look at some of the language we can use to talk about resilience, specifically in your English learning journey.
To pick yourself up
This phrase embodies the idea of regaining one's composure and determination after a setback. In language learning, it could refer to dusting yourself off after experiencing frustration and continuing to strive for improvement.
Example sentence: After failing the English exam, Olga picked herself up, enrolled in extra classes, and passed with flying colours.
Hang on in there: When faced with difficulties, this expression encourages perseverance and endurance. In the context of language learning, it signifies holding onto your goals and persisting through challenges, no matter how daunting they may seem.
Example sentence: Despite struggling with understanding his co-workers, Pyotr hung on in there, and eventually started to feel more comfortable communicating at work.
To bounce back: Like a resilient ball, this phrase denotes the ability to recover swiftly from setbacks. In language learning, it signifies quickly rebounding from setbacks, using them as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles.
Example sentence: Despite forgetting her presentation notes, Lita bounced back by improvising and delivering an impressive speech.
To ride out the storm: This saying conveys the idea of weathering difficulties with patience and resilience. In language learning, it means staying committed to your learning journey despite temporary setbacks or obstacles.
Example sentence: When faced with challenges in preparing for his exams, Mark rode out the storm, seeking help from his tutor until he understood the concepts.
To stay the course: This expression emphasises the importance of staying true to one's path despite challenges or distractions. In language learning, it encourages learners to remain focused on their goals and persevere through difficulties.
Example sentence: Despite feeling overwhelmed by the workload, David stayed the course, remaining committed to his language learning goals.