Mentally Strong People

I have talked about getting fit in 2014 and how to train your brain for over all physical and memory health, however there are some resilient factors that mentally strong  people display that lead to overall emotional and behavioral wellness. In all honesty, the world is a dog eat dog place and evolutionarily speaking, we as humans need to adapt to better survive. According to the article by Amy Morin, a fellow psychotherapist, there are 13 factors that mentally strong people carry out that I will provide my opinion on below

1.     They Don’t Waste Time Feeling Sorry for Themselves

Instead of having a pity party, mentally strong individuals are proactive in making their situation better. Like I said, life can be difficult and I am not minimizing anyone’s situation, however those who are most resilient don’t wallow in their sadness and troubles.

2.     They Don’t Give Away Their Power

No matter what happens to you or what anyone says, you have the ability to decide how you will react to that. If someone is being negative or putting you down you have the power and mental ability to decide to take their words to heart. You are in control of yourself, your behaviors and your emotions.

3.     They Don’t Shy Away from Change

Mentally strong individuals see change as an opportunity for something better and personal growth. They do not turn away from it but forge forward with vengeance.

4.     They Don’t Waste Energy on Things They Can’t Control

Life is unexpected and we cannot waste productive energy on things we cannot control, because there are a lot of them. We can only manage our reaction and attitude towards the situation and move on.

5.     They Don’t Worry About Pleasing Everyone

Through my life I have learned no matter the situation, someone will be unhappy with the outcome. That might not even have anything to do with you. Therefore people pleasing is wasted energy. Be kind and considerate but stand up for yourself and others. Too many people don’t advocate for themselves in fear they will hurt someone’s feelings. If you are not taking a stand for yourself, who will?

6.      They Don’t Fear Taking Calculated Risks

The article mentions that mentally strong people outweigh the risks and benefits of every situation and don’t make rash decisions. I think that this is important to do but some mentally strong people trust their “gut” on whether a venture is positive for them. It is all about their self confidence and flexibility.

7.     They Don’t Dwell on the Past

The thing about the past is that it cannot be changed. We can’t live our life wondering “what if.” Instead, we can learn from those experiences and mistakes and use them in our future endeavors while enjoying the present moment and freeing ourselves from worry. One of my favorite quotes is:

 “If you are depressed you are living in the past, if you are anxious you are living in the future and if you are at peace you are living in the present moment” –Lao Tzu

8.      They Don’t Make the Same Mistakes Over and Over

We are human, we all make mistakes. However learn from your past mistakes, accept responsibility for your actions and use this as full to push you forward.

9.      They Don’t Resent Other People’s Success

I was going to add my opinion to this factor. However Amy wrote it perfectly: “Mentally strong people can appreciate and celebrate other people’s success in life. They don’t grow jealous or feel cheated when others surpass them. Instead, they recognize that success comes with hard work, and they are willing to work hard for their own chance at success.”

10. They Don’t Give Up After the First Failure

You cannot fail at anything if you are not trying new things. With experiencing failure we will never learn or appreciate success. Mentally strong people see failure as opportunity for improvement and use that to help further their goals and dreams.

11. They Don’t Fear Alone Time

Alone time is honestly one of my most favorite things. It is quality time with yourself, to give yourself what you need. It allows you to become aware of your thoughts and relax. Too many people don’t take the time with themselves. This allows for reflection and silence from the busy world. If you don’t like being with yourself, then why should other people. While the company  of friends and family is important, you have to learn to be happy by yourself until you can truly maintain this happiness amongst others. Meditation is a great way to have “you time” (article to come).

12. They Don’t Feel the World Owes Them Anything

Mentally strong people do not have a sense of entitlement. They don’t feel they are owed anything in life and are willing to work towards success. They also promote other’s success as mentioned in #9. They have to strength to care for themselves and support others.

13.  They Don’t Expect Immediate Results

Anything worth having takes hard work and dedication. Whether it is a new fitness regiment, a new career, starting college, or beginning your road to happiness. It is going to take some time to get to the point of personal success. Mentally strong people are aware of that and slowly climb towards their ultimate goals.

Overall, mentally strong people are “strong” because they know that they have personal power and are in control of themselves and their emotions. They have the confidence to persist in any situation. They take time and care for themselves. Mentally strong individuals work hard towards their goals and see failures as opportunities for growth. They promote success and others and are not afraid to have differing opinions. Overall, I think that this was a great and motivational article to read for 2014. Let me know what you think in the comments below.

Until Next time.

Future Therapist