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Resilience

People and communities bending without breaking.

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ResilienceUpworthy

People in their 70s who passed a 30-second test had a 61% lower chance of dying in 7 years

In a groundbreaking study from Taiwan, researchers discovered that older adults who demonstrated the ability to balance on one leg for 30 seconds had a significantly lower risk of mortality over the following seven years. This simple test, conducted on a diverse group of over 13,000 individuals aged 65 and older, underscores the profound connection between physical stability and longevity. The findings, published in JAMA Network Open, highlight that maintaining balance and core strength can be as pivotal to health as more intensive exercise regimens, offering a more accessible approach to sustaining well-being in later life.

  • Hope
  • Perseverance
  • Perspective
YouTube
ResilienceUpworthy

How to stop waking up each night at 3 or 4 in the morning

The article tackles a common issue that many people face: waking up in the middle of the night with a sense of anxiety, often exacerbated by the natural rise in cortisol levels. This biological phenomenon, coupled with existing stress, can leave individuals feeling vulnerable and spiraling into negative thoughts. The piece offers practical solutions to break this cycle, such as creating a to-do list outside the bedroom to manage stress, focusing on breathing to redirect thoughts, and having a small snack to stabilize blood sugar levels.

  • Perspective
  • Curiosity
  • Hope
YouTube
ResilienceUpworthy

A bride got dumped a week before her dream Italian wedding. She had an incredible party anyway.

In a remarkable display of resilience and self-determination, Katherine Jones, faced with the emotional upheaval of a canceled wedding just a week before the event, chose not to let her meticulous 18-month planning go to waste. Instead of succumbing to despair, she transformed her would-be Italian wedding into a celebration of independence and personal strength. With the support of her closest friends and family, who rallied to her side in Tuscany, Jones reimagined the gathering as a tribute to her own journey and the supportive relationships that define her life.

  • Courage
  • Perspective
  • Gratitude
YouTube
ResilienceReasons to be Cheerful

How Afghan Women Are Rebuilding Reproductive Health Care

In a landscape fraught with challenges, Afghan women are spearheading a quiet revolution in healthcare through the establishment of Family Health Houses (FHHs). These facilities, born from a 2009 initiative by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), provide essential maternal and newborn care in some of the most remote and inaccessible regions of Afghanistan. Midwives like Marzia, Laila Amini, and Monika Rahmati are at the forefront, delivering life-saving services to women who would otherwise face immense barriers to healthcare access. The story of Ram Bibi and Manawara, who received timely and expert care at their local FHHs, underscores the critical role these centers play in a country where healthcare access is severely limited.

  • Courage
  • Perseverance
  • Hope
YouTube
ResilienceUpworthy

32 fascinating jobs The Greatest Generation, Silent Generation and Baby Boomers did that shaped America today

In a nostalgic journey through the annals of American labor history, the article celebrates the indomitable spirit and pioneering work of the Greatest Generation, Silent Generation, and Baby Boomers. These generations, who weathered the storms of global wars and economic upheavals, held a variety of jobs that today seem almost mythical due to their rarity and historical context. From aviation mechanics who kept the war efforts airborne to women like the iconic 'Rosie the Riveter,' who broke barriers in industrial work, these stories not only highlight individual tenacity but also the collective resilience that laid the groundwork for modern America.

  • Courage
  • Perseverance
  • Gratitude
YouTube
ResilienceUpworthy

In 1998, a man illegally cut holes in a Tucson street curb. The result changed the law.

In 1998, Brad Lancaster took a bold step to address Tucson's water scarcity by illegally cutting holes in his street curb to channel rainwater into his neighborhood. This unorthodox action, initially kept under wraps, eventually led to a remarkable transformation of his surroundings into a lush, thriving ecosystem. Lancaster's initiative not only demonstrated the potential of rainwater harvesting but also prompted a legal and cultural shift in Tucson's approach to water management. The city now actively supports these practices through a dedicated department and incentives for homeowners, reflecting the profound impact of Lancaster's grassroots innovation.

  • Courage
  • Perseverance
  • Curiosity
YouTube
ResilienceGood News Network

Homeless Guy Got Famous Playing Amazing Piano in a Church–Now He’s Raised $50K for Charity

In an extraordinary tale of resilience and transformation, Rhys Wynne-Jones, a homeless man in England, found solace in the keys of a piano at St. Mary's Church in Penzance. His impromptu performance of Queen's 'Bohemian Rhapsody,' shared by volunteers on social media, catapulted him into the limelight and changed his life's trajectory. This viral moment led to opportunities to perform alongside British celebrities and secure stable housing, all while channeling his newfound fame to raise $54,000 for homeless charities.

  • Courage
  • Kindness
  • Hope
TikTok
ResilienceUpworthy

Want to see a teeny turtle get ‘hyped’ as he scuttles his way to the sea? Yes, you really do.

In a world where life's challenges can often seem daunting, a viral video of a baby turtle named Franklin making his way to the ocean has captured the hearts of millions. The scene is simple yet profound: Franklin, a tiny hatchling, embarks on his instinctual journey across the sand, with an enthusiastic human 'hype man' cheering him on. The video, which has been viewed 24 million times on TikTok, offers a heartwarming reminder of the power of encouragement and the importance of allowing natural struggles to unfold without interference.

  • Courage
  • Hope
  • Kindness
Instagram
ResilienceUpworthy

Communication expert explains Dolly Parton’s trick to handle people who talked down to her

Dolly Parton's deft handling of condescending comments through a strategy termed 'label upgrade' offers a masterclass in communication. In a notable 1978 interview with Barbara Walters, Parton transformed potentially disparaging remarks into affirmations of pride and individuality. Walters's comments about Parton's appearance and upbringing could have been seen as belittling, yet Parton seamlessly redefined 'hillbilly' from a term of derision to one of dignity and 'country class.' Her approach exemplifies how accepting and redefining labels can disarm and elevate a conversation.

  • Courage
  • Perspective
  • Kindness
YouTube
ResilienceUpworthy

Boomers share 20 life skills they’re proud they learned but are rarely used today

In a world increasingly dominated by digital conveniences, Baby Boomers reflect on the seemingly 'useless' skills they acquired in their youth—skills that required patience, dexterity, and a hands-on approach to life. From sewing and map reading to cooking from scratch and using a slide rule, these abilities were not just learned but lived. Each skill, while perhaps deemed obsolete today, carries a legacy of resourcefulness and self-reliance that resonates with the emerging toolbelt generation, Gen Z, who are seeking similar grounding in practical know-how.

  • Gratitude
  • Perseverance
  • Curiosity
YouTube
ResilienceUpworthy

Chronic disorganization expert shares 6 tips to end the ADHD clutter shame cycle

In a world where clutter often leads to feelings of shame, especially for those with ADHD, Alison Lush offers a refreshing perspective on managing disorganization. Her approach is not about achieving a Pinterest-perfect home but about creating functional, personal systems that reduce stress and improve quality of life. By redefining what it means to be organized, Lush helps individuals move past societal 'shoulds' and embrace practical strategies that resonate with their unique needs.

  • Hope
  • Courage
  • Perspective
YouTube
ResilienceGood News Network

91-yo ‘Greybeard’ Becomes Oldest Person to Hike Appalachian Trail After 359 Days and 71 Falls

Dale Sanders, affectionately known as 'Greybeard', has etched his name into the annals of hiking history by becoming the oldest person to complete the Appalachian Trail at 91 years old. His journey, stretching over 359 days and marked by 71 falls, is a testament to unyielding perseverance. Despite facing physical setbacks, including a brief hospitalization, Sanders' determination, buoyed by the support of his wife and encounters with 'trail angels', propelled him to the trail's terminus in Maine.

  • Perseverance
  • Gratitude
  • Hope
YouTube
ResilienceGood News Network

91-yo ‘Greybeard’ Becomes Oldest Person to Hike the Appalachian Trial After 359 Days and 71 Falls

Dale Sanders, known affectionately as 'Greybeard,' has become the oldest person to complete the Appalachian Trail, finishing his journey at the age of 91. His adventure, spanning 359 days and marked by 71 falls and a brief hospitalization, is a testament to resilience and the human spirit. Despite setbacks, including a hospital stay and the passing of his mother-in-law, Sanders persevered with the support of his wife and the kindness of 'trail angels' who assisted him along the way.

  • Perseverance
  • Hope
  • Love
Instagram
ResilienceUpworthy

This major American company started in 1925. It hasn’t laid off a single employee since.

In a world where layoffs are often seen as an inevitable part of business, Torani, a flavored syrup company founded in 1925, stands as a beacon of resilience and employee loyalty. Despite economic downturns like the Great Depression and the more recent COVID-19 pandemic, Torani has managed to keep its entire workforce employed. This remarkable feat can be attributed to a deeply ingrained company culture that values its employees as its greatest asset. Through strategic financial planning and a commitment to open communication, the company has navigated challenges without sacrificing its workforce.

  • Perseverance
  • Kindness
  • Hope
Instagram
ResilienceUpworthy

96-year-old insists that the ‘third part of life,’ from age 75 on, is actually awesome

Alice McGinty, at 96, is redefining what it means to age gracefully and with purpose. Far from succumbing to societal expectations that the elderly should quietly withdraw, she embraces life with vigor, attending yoga and Pilates, creating art, and sharing her insights on social media. Her message is clear: the 'third part of life' can be the most fulfilling, filled with opportunities for learning, growth, and self-trust. McGinty's active engagement in her community and her refusal to be marginalized by ageism underscore a vibrant narrative of resilience and reinvention.

  • Hope
  • Courage
  • Curiosity
YouTube
ResilienceUpworthy

Forget how your mom did it. There’s actually a right way to remove a tick.

In a world where traditional wisdom often holds sway, the article challenges long-held beliefs about tick removal, emphasizing scientifically-backed methods over folklore. The piece dismantles old practices like using matches or Vaseline, which, rather than helping, can exacerbate the problem by causing the tick to regurgitate harmful pathogens. Instead, it advocates for a straightforward, evidence-based approach using fine-tipped tweezers, aligning with recommendations from health authorities like the CDC.

  • Curiosity
  • Courage
  • Perseverance
YouTube
ResilienceUpworthy

Nazis demanded to know if ‘The Hobbit’ author J.R.R. Tolkien was Jewish. His response was legendary.

In a time when oppressive regimes sought to erase cultures and impose rigid ideologies, J.R.R. Tolkien's response to a German publisher's inquiry about his racial heritage stands as a testament to the power of words and intellect over tyranny. Faced with the Nazi demand to prove his Aryan descent for the publication of 'The Hobbit' in Germany, Tolkien crafted a letter that deftly dismantled the racist assumptions of his inquirers. Rather than simply rebuffing the question, he used his philological expertise to highlight the absurdity of the Nazi racial doctrine, expressing regret that he had no Jewish ancestry and questioning the propriety of such inquiries.

  • Courage
  • Perspective
  • Love
Instagram
ResilienceUpworthy

The ‘Secular Buddhist’ shares 2 practices to soothe everyday anxiety and aggravation

In a world often characterized by stress and unpredictability, Noah Rasheta, a podcaster and author, offers a fresh perspective through 'Secular Buddhism.' Having distanced himself from the religious doctrines of his past, Rasheta advocates for a practical application of Buddhist principles without the need for spiritual affiliation. His approach centers on two key practices: affect labeling and expanding perspective. By encouraging individuals to observe their emotions and recognize the gap between experience and awareness, Rasheta provides a tool for managing anxiety that fosters a deeper understanding of one’s emotional landscape.

  • Curiosity
  • Perspective
  • Hope
YouTube
ResilienceUpworthy

A carjacker stole an SUV with two kids inside. He didn’t count on the 8-year-old girl in the backseat.

In a gripping tale of quick thinking and bravery, an 8-year-old girl named Charley managed to thwart a carjacking in Oak Creek, Wisconsin. While her father, Adam Jorgenson, was distracted by an accomplice, a carjacker took off with Charley and her 2-year-old sister, Autumn, in the backseat. Demonstrating remarkable composure, Charley negotiated with the thief about her sister’s safety and, once the car stopped, used her father's phone to call for help, allowing her parents to track their location and ensuring a swift reunion.

  • Courage
  • Perseverance
  • Kindness
TikTok
ResilienceUpworthy

Man’s 2-minute rant on why we should ‘fear,’ not pity, single moms is hysterically spot on

Eros Brousson's viral rant on single mothers flips the script on societal perceptions, spotlighting their formidable resilience rather than seeking pity. With humor and insight, Brousson paints a vivid picture of single mothers as powerful figures who juggle child-rearing, work, and self-care without the luxury of support or rest. His comedic yet poignant portrayal resonates with countless single mothers, who feel seen and validated by his depiction of their daily lives.

  • Courage
  • Perspective
  • Kindness
Instagram
ResilienceUpworthy

He thought a stiff neck was just a gym injury. Then doctors found a tumor in his brain.

Sean Sweeney's journey from a seemingly innocuous gym injury to a life-altering diagnosis of brain cancer is a testament to human resilience and the power of positive mindset. Initially dismissing his stiff neck as a minor consequence of overexertion, Sweeney's life took a dramatic turn following a midnight seizure, revealing a large brain tumor. Despite the diagnosis of an aggressive and incurable astrocytoma, Sweeney chose to focus on what he could control, marrying his long-time partner Lucy and undergoing challenging surgery and treatment with courage.

  • Courage
  • Perseverance
  • Hope
Facebook
ResilienceUpworthy

Harvard psychiatrist reveals ‘the fastest way to change your life’ using just one Post-it note

Dr. Kavetha Sundaramoorthy, a Harvard-trained psychiatrist, offers a refreshingly simple yet profound approach to changing one's life using just a Post-it note. Her method involves recognizing the three layers of mental processing: experience, story, and reaction. By inserting a small step of 'awareness'—noticing a part of oneself feels a certain way—between the story and the reaction, individuals can create a space for more mindful responses rather than impulsive reactions. This practice, which echoes principles found in Buddhist philosophy and cognitive behavioral therapy, encourages a detachment from immediate emotional narratives, allowing for a more balanced and calm approach to interpersonal interactions.

  • Curiosity
  • Perspective
  • Courage
YouTube
ResilienceUpworthy

Look Back At Linh Mai’s Most Memorable Moments As She Turns 7 Months Old

In a heartwarming chronicle of resilience and community, Linh Mai, an Asian elephant calf, has captured the hearts of many in her first seven months of life. Born into challenging circumstances at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo, Linh Mai was initially rejected by her mother, Nhi Linh, and required round-the-clock care from her dedicated human caretakers. This adversity was met with an outpouring of love and support, not only from the zoo staff but also from the elephant community, particularly an 'auntie' elephant named Swarna, who stepped into a nurturing role. The public's engagement in naming Linh Mai, which raised significant funds for elephant conservation, further demonstrates the collective commitment to her wellbeing and that of her species.

  • Perseverance
  • Kindness
  • Hope
YouTube
ResilienceUpworthy

Mom shares ‘extreme $25 grocery budget’ to feed family of 4, 3 meals a day for a week

In an era where grocery bills seem to balloon with each passing month, Julia Pacheco's 'extreme $25 grocery budget' offers a beacon of resourcefulness and resilience. By sharing her journey on YouTube, Pacheco not only defies the daunting USDA statistic of an average $236.50 weekly grocery cost for a family of four but also empowers others to navigate financial constraints with creativity and care. Her menu, crafted from a carefully curated $25.28 shopping list, provides nourishing meals without resorting to fillers, demonstrating that with ingenuity, even the most modest budgets can yield both sustenance and satisfaction.

  • Perseverance
  • Curiosity
  • Kindness

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HopeGratitudeConnectionCourageKindnessCreativityGrowth