Resiliency is defined as the ability to recover readily from illness, depression, adversity, or the like;
buoyancy.
Throughout history there have been many resilient figures, including you! At some point in our lives we
must all show some form of resiliency. Below are characteristics to look for in a resilient human being.
As you work on your presentations on a resilient figure, ask yourself “What makes this person
resilient?” “What characteristics of resiliency does my selected figure show and how?”
Relationships -- Sociability/ability to be a friend/ability to form positive relationships
Service -- Gives of self in service to others or a cause
Life Skills -- Uses life skills, including good decision-making, assertiveness, and impulse control
Humor -- Has a good sense of humor
Inner Direction -- Bases choices/decisions on internal evaluation (internal locus of control)
Perceptiveness – Insightful understanding of people and situations
Independence -- "Adaptive" distancing from unhealthy people and situations/autonomy
Positive View of Personal Future -- Expects a positive future (Optimism)
Flexibility -- Can adjust to change; can bend as necessary to positively cope with situations
Love of Learning -- Capacity for & connection to learning
Self-motivation -- Internal initiative, inner motivation
Competence -- Is "good at something"/personal competence
Self-Worth -- Feelings of self-worth and self-confidence
Spirituality -- Personal faith in something greater
Perseverance -- Keeps on despite difficulty; doesn't give up
Creativity -- Expresses self through artistic endeavor, or in other creative ways
As we learn about Franklin Delano Roosevelt and work on our presentations on a resilient figure, think
about the following questions. Answer them on a separate sheet of paper.
1. Based on the background information of Franklin D. Roosevelt you have received, which of the
above characteristics of resiliency did Franklin D. Roosevelt have? Be sure to briefly explain
why in your answer.
2. While reading through The First Inaugural Address, with the time period that it was given in
mind (The Great Depression), highlight, or underline, any parts of the address that shows
Franklin D. Roosevelt’s resiliency, explain your reasoning.