If you work in a veterinary practice or in the pet industry or in a business that supplies goods or services to the industry and you have something to say - why not become a 'Guest Blogger'?
For more information click here to read our: Guidelines for Guest Bloggers
When we talk about resilience, we often think of it as sheer grit – the ability to bounce back when life throws a curveball.
But in reality, resilience is far more nuanced, and far more powerful, than just “pushing through.”
At its core, resilience is made up of four interconnected domains: practical, physical, psychological, and social.
These aren’t abstract ideas – they’re tangible areas of strength we can build, shape, and draw on in both everyday moments and times of crisis.
Let’s explore what each domain really means:
Practical resilience is about structure, systems, and problem-solving. It’s your ability to stay organised, manage your time, plan ahead, and make clear decisions under pressure.
When practical resilience is strong, chaos becomes manageable – and control becomes possible.
Physical resilience is the biological foundation that supports everything else. Good sleep, proper nutrition, regular movement, and rest – these are your non-negotiables.
When your body is cared for, your capacity to deal with stress dramatically improves.
Psychological resilience is your inner world; how you think, what you believe, and how you respond to adversity. It’s about flexibility, perspective, optimism, and self-awareness.
This is the quiet, internal work that builds strength where no one can see it.
Social resilience is the strength you draw from your relationships. It’s about being able to seek help, offer support, communicate openly, and feel a sense of connection.
No one is an island – and resilience grows in the soil of community.
Resilience isn’t a single trait. It’s a system. And just like any system, when one part is neglected, the whole thing is undermined.
Take a moment to reflect:
Which domains are you prioritising, and which domains are you overlooking?
True resilience doesn’t come from one heroic act of toughness. It comes from the consistent, often invisible effort of strengthening each domain – so you’re ready, not just to survive, but to thrive, no matter what comes your way.
Dr Gary Turnbull is a veterinarian, international speaker, and Director at Lincoln Institute of Veterinary Business. He is widely recognised as a coach, presenter, and facilitator in veterinary leadership, practice management, and business strategy. With a strong interest in personal leadership, interpersonal communication, and non-clinical professional mastery, Gary has presented extensively across Australia, New Zealand, Southeast Asia, and the United States. Gary joined Lincoln Institute in 2014 and the following year delivered the AVBA ‘On The Move’ series, ‘Leading Change in Your Practice.’ He also developed the internationally delivered Goldmine Veterinary Dental Program. Across a 20-year clinical career, Gary worked as a companion animal veterinarian and Director of East Port Veterinary Hospital, a multiple award-winning ASVA Accredited Hospital of Excellence on the mid-north coast of New South Wales. He graduated with first-class honours from the University of Sydney. Today, Gary focuses on educating and empowering veterinary business owners and professionals to take charge of their practices, careers, and lives through the programs delivered by Lincoln. When he’s not working, Gary can usually be found near the ocean searching for the perfect wave.
Connect with Dr Gary:
455+ online appointments, fewer phone calls and more time for clients The challenge Cairns Veterinary Clinic found themselves under constant front desk pressure, with high call volumes and no capacity to scale further by hiring. At the same time, more pet owners...
