Superwoman is unreal. She can stop speeding bullets and fly around the globe at a moment’s notice. The only thing that slows her down is Kryptonite, a radioactive substance from her home planet, Krypton. You, like Superwoman, are strong. And like Superwoman, you are not invincible. There are some things that really get to you. You also have a lot of coping strategies. Knowing your #1 strategy, your anti-kryptonite, allows you to use your primary coping skill quickly when needed.  

As a unique person, your core strategy is unique to you. Even people who are closely related to you may have very different needs when it comes to getting through hard times. Your genetic makeup, particular life experiences, and the personal choices you have made throughout life have resulted in the current version of you. What really, really helps you might be a nice add-on for someone else. Naming this allows you to prioritize your needs. 

People from Krypton need to have a lead suit nearby should someone show up with Kryptonite to attack them. Instead of a lead suit, I need words. Words in books, words I write, words that are part of conversations. Libraries and book stores are places of retreat, giving me easy access to wisdom, entertainment, and possible solutions. Writing allows me to process my thoughts and emotions. When I publish my writing, I hope to make a difference to others. Deep conversations with loved ones, interesting strangers, and compassionate listeners are my protection against discouragement.  

Instead of keeping a lead suit at hand, my backpack always contains books, colored pens, notebooks, and a laptop. Recently I had all these with me during a library trip. However, instead of reading or writing I ended up in an interesting conversation with a stranger about the importance of extended family and the need for gay rights for every generation. The world is discouraging; words give me hope. 

Your anti-kryptonite may be similar or very different. You are welcome to share your approach through email or in the comment section. Over the summer you will find different strategies shared here by guest writers or myself as I talk with people. Learning about other’s strategies might put words to your own experiences or give you ideas you can try in your life. Being aware of options may help your future self.  

People from Earth are diverse and can have very different vulnerabilities and coping strategies. Your uniqueness is part of what makes you human. Knowing your anti-Kryptonite, and building access to it into your life, will help you stay resilient during stressful times.  

Peace,

Laura