Resourcefulness was analyzed by Walker and Avant's method to make a theoretical framework for nursing. Also, the appropriate Korean terminology was identified. "Resourcefulness" means the ability to use internal and external resources to eliminate or to control stress. 'Resourcefulness' is chosen to be the most appropriate term to reflect the concept of resourcefulness. Upon the concept analysis availability, controllability, confidence, and self-instruction were identified as the defining characteristics of resourcefulness. Contrary to other work, "availability" means the ability to use the social resources as well as the internal cognitive-behavioral resources. "Controllability" means the ability to delay or control immediate gratification of one's needs or to divert one's own mood in order to solve problem. "Confidence" is the self-efficacy belief in one's control ability. "Self-instruction" is the cognitive ability to instruct oneself positively. Resourcefulness is learned by active experience, vicarious experience, and formal or informal instruction or a need for change. As a result of the use of resourcefulness, the target behavior performed immediately and ultimately improve the quality of life or adaptation. Therefore, it is necessary to develop the instrument including the defining attributes identified in this study. Also, it is necessary to simultaneously analyze the related concepts of self-efficacy, self-control, and self-regulation for appropriate use.