During challenging times, how do we progress and bounce back from adversity?
In 2020, the performing arts industry was severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic as venues closed and crowds disappeared overnight. Musicians, actors, and production crews faced the daunting task of remaining resilient despite the sudden loss of their livelihood. To understand how individuals maintained their resilience during this difficult period, we collaborated with MusiCares, a nonprofit supporting music industry professionals, to investigate the role of mindfulness and hopefulness. Mindfulness involves being present and aware in the moment, while hopefulness is about believing in and working towards a better future. Our research focused on how these mental approaches influenced artists’ ability to persevere through the pandemic’s challenges.
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Mindfulness, often considered essential for coping with crises like the pandemic, did not prove to be as effective as expected, according to our research findings. While mindfulness is valuable for well-being, cultivating a hopeful outlook emerged as a critical strategy for overcoming challenges.
Over an 18-month period, we followed 247 performers, monitoring their mindset and well-being during lockdown. Through questionnaires distributed in 2021, we collected data on their experiences, work-related tension, and resilience levels. We assessed their mindfulness and hopefulness by examining their responses to specific statements related to the pandemic. Surprisingly, our study revealed that hopefulness, rather than mindfulness, played a significant role in helping artists navigate the prolonged stress of the pandemic.
Individuals who maintained a hopeful outlook reported higher levels of work-related resilience and engagement, even amidst the industry’s uncertainty. Their ability to stay productive and explore new ways of delivering their craft, such as virtual performances, was attributed to their hopeful mindset. Positive emotions stemming from hopefulness further enhanced their coping mechanisms during the crisis.
The study highlighted that while mindfulness has its benefits, it may not always be the most effective tool in challenging situations. For prolonged adversity, actively cultivating hope can serve as a powerful coping strategy, motivating individuals to work towards a brighter future. Practices such as journaling about aspirations, collaborating with others, and setting achievable goals can help individuals maintain hope and focus beyond their current circumstances.
In times of uncertainty and hardship, fostering hope can provide the resilience needed to persevere. By taking inspiration from the resilient artists in our study and nurturing hope, individuals can find the strength to overcome challenges and emerge stronger than before.
Are you a scientist specializing in neuroscience, cognitive science, or psychology? Have you recently read a peer-reviewed paper that you’d like to discuss for Mind Matters? Send your suggestions to Scientific American‘s Mind Matters editor Daisy Yuhas at dyuhas@sciam.com.
This article reflects author opinions and analysis, not necessarily those of Scientific American.
