It has been a terrible, deadly year. Every year brings its share of death, poverty and sadness, but 2021 has been a catastrophic time for almost all of us on this planet. Not only has the death and pain been so widespread, it didn’t have to be this way. It was made possible and exacerbated by the cowardice and greed of a handful of people who valued financial wealth above the lives of millions of their fellow human beings.

I am lucky. I know that a number of factors conspired to keep me from much of the fallout from which others have experienced.

But my book and my worldview reflect my perspective of resilience. Some of my resilience can be attributed to my innate stubbornness. I don’t know how it happened, what fuels it or its source. It’s just who I am. From as far back as I can remember, I’ve had this filament of willful resistance that determines my attitudes and behavior.

This righteous obstinance of mine informs and inspires my resourcefulness, ingenuity and creativity.

I’d like to teach you how you can cultivate it.

Take a look at the plants assembled on my windowsill and in my kitchen (pictured above). They are currently not occupying their ideal environment. The geraniums thrive in full sun on a warm summer day. The tomatoes prefer to have their roots exploring a rich plot of garden soil.

But they are safe in my home while the winter winds blow outside. Sitting on my window sill, they’re in a moderate climate. They get filtered sun or the artificial rays of a grow light. Periodically, they are rotated to allow the most possible light to fall upon their leaves. And despite their limited situation, they are beautiful. Moreover, they are still 100% geraniums. Or tomatoes. Or aloe. Their situation may have altered their vibrancy, but not their essence.

When we find ourselves in a situation that isn’t fully aligned with our preferred or desired outcomes, remember:

• Look for the light.
• Conserve your resources.
• Celebrate your beauty.
• Be ruthless when it comes to protecting your energy.
• Seek support where you need it.
• If you need to find safe harbor for a season, do so.

There is always someone who will help you. Seek them out.

Winter may be here, but summer is coming.

P.S. Every Sunday, I publish a free weekly newsletter called the 3 Minute Reset, which includes life lessons, life hacks and treats. To subscribe, click here.