A DEEPER LOOK AT RESILIENCE
Positivity doesn’t have to equal blind faith. Stephanie Lewis, LICSW, LCSW, LSW, and Executive Director of Epiphany Wellness, shares how skeptics can build resilience without faking enthusiasm.
“Your skepticism isn’t a flaw—it’s a strength,” says Lewis. “It allows you to ask questions, think critically, and avoid unquestioning optimism.” The key is using it to problem-solve, not spiral. Ask yourself: What’s realistic here? What’s one thing I can do to move forward?
USE SKEPTICISM AS A STRENGTH
Reframing isn’t denial—it’s perspective. Instead of “This is terrible, and nothing will get better,” try “This is hard, but I’ve faced challenges before, and I’ll figure this out too.” This shift keeps you grounded without getting stuck.
REFRAME WITHOUT PRETENDING
SMALL ACTIONS BREAK THE CYCLE
“If you’re thinking, ‘This is an impossible situation,’ shift to, ‘What’s one thing I can do right now to make this a little better?’” says Lewis. Even minor actions—organizing thoughts, tackling one small task—can restore a sense of control.
“Resilience doesn’t require choosing between positivity and skepticism—you can hold both simultaneously,” Lewis explains. This dialectical thinking allows space for: ✔ This situation is tough, and I can handle it. ✔ I feel frustrated, and I’m also grateful for support.
YOU CAN HOLD TWO TRUTHS AT ONCE
CURIOSITY OVER CYNICISM
Instead of fixating on what’s wrong, ask: What can I learn from this? What strengths am I using? Curiosity shifts your focus from obstacles to opportunities.
STAY GROUNDED IN GRATITUDE
Gratitude isn’t about ignoring reality—it’s noticing small, genuine positives. “Today was tough, but I’m grateful I had a moment to enjoy my coffee.” Recognizing good doesn’t erase hardship—it simply gives you more to work with.
Resilience isn’t about becoming someone new. It’s about using who you already are— skepticism included—to navigate challenges. ●
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