Centuries-old wisdom tells us that positive transformation is possible in the aftermath of trauma. The science of Posttraumatic Growth shows us that when we’re forced to reflect on our lives and make sense of the destruction caused by hardship and trauma, our struggles can become a catalyst for transformation. These positive changes can allow us to grow emotionally, gain a new appreciation for life, seek more meaningful connections with others, and find greater meaning and purpose. Trauma does not have to be the end of the road; rather, it can be the path to a new beginning.
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Life is full of challenges—some that push us to the brink of what we believe we can handle. These struggles can be overwhelming. They test our limits, disrupt our lives, and can leave us feeling defeated and even helpless.
But what if those struggles could lead to new possibilities? To personal growth? To wisdom?
In the mid-1980s, two psychologists embarked on a journey to understand the origins of wisdom and how people navigate life’s challenges. They interviewed hundreds of trauma survivors, and after a decade of research, they discovered what the ancient Greeks had known for thousands of years: all great wisdom comes from suffering.
This truth has been echoed in literature, religion, and philosophy throughout the ages. History shows countless examples—through our darkest moments, we’re tested and forged into the wiser, more authentic human beings we’re destined to be.
The doctors witnessed this transformation in their research time and time again. From struggle came strength. From pain came purpose. From trauma came triumph.
They named it Posttraumatic Growth. It’s the idea that when we’re forced to reflect on our lives and make sense of the destruction caused by our trauma, our struggles can become a catalyst for transformation—and prompt changes that allow us to grow, gain a new appreciation for life, seek more meaningful connections with others, and find greater purpose in our lives.
But how does that science translate into action?
Boulder Crest Foundation was born a decade ago out of the search for a solution for veterans and first responders struggling with PTSD. On our journey, we discovered Posttraumatic Growth. And that prompted a question which proved to be a light bulb moment, inspiring our work to this day: Can we train people to experience PTG?
Over the past decade, Boulder Crest has trained over 100,000 people to thrive in the aftermath of trauma. Tomorrow, we’ll train the world.
Learn more at bouldercrest.org.
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