Surviving in Adversity, Surrounded by Beauty

Surviving in adversity can feel overwhelming. This brief post offers a grounded psychological perspective on coping when life feels larger than our capacity.

Comfort and discomfort are constants in life. At times, pain feels too large and our ability to cope too small. Illness, grief, financial pressures, or relationship strain can leave us powerless, trapped, broken and defeated [1]. These experiences are often intensified by how our nervous system responds under threat, as outlined in work on the autonomic nervous system and pain.

Yet beauty continues alongside hardship. The intentional noticing of small things, such as a sunrise, a kookaburra’s laugh, a friend’s hand, or a flower in bloom, does not stop the pain but steadies us and reminds us that both struggle and beauty are always present. This grounded approach is consistent with the idea that overly positive reassurance is not always helpful.
Like daisies growing on volcanic rock in harsh but beautiful conditions, resilience and beauty coexist. Life is a balancing act between difficulty and ease, comfort and discomfort, despair and hope [2].

Holding Both Truths at Once

In psychology, this is called dialectics. Two truths can exist together. We can acknowledge pain while still allowing space for beauty. This perspective aligns with a broader psychological understanding that positive affirmations are sometimes not quite enough,
particularly during periods of significant distress. This shift broadens our view of what is possible and helps us avoid being swallowed by adversity [3].

Building Resilience in Hardship

Resilience is not pretending everything is fine. It means continuing step by step while staying connected to what matters. This often involves clarifying personal values and acting in line with them, even during difficulty, as discussed in Clarifying Your Values: Enhance Your Life Direction.
Helpful practices include noticing beauty intentionally, seeking supportive connection, resting when needed, and acting in line with personal values [4].

Enquiries and Appointments

Enquiries and Appointments at Hennessy Clinical Psychology

Frequently Asked Questions

Does noticing beauty mean denying pain?

No. Noticing beauty does not deny pain. However, it can support emotional regulation and resilience alongside distress [2][3].

What does psychology mean by holding two truths at once?

This is referred to as dialectical thinking. It involves acknowledging suffering while also recognising sources of meaning, connection, or steadiness [3].

Is resilience something you are born with?

No. Resilience is a dynamic process shaped by behaviour, relationships, values, and environment. It can be strengthened over time through intentional practice [1][4].

References