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There is a popular book called 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do by Amy Morin. I found this list to help me focus on ways I can become more mentally strong, and I hope that sharing it will have the same impact on you. Here are thirteen behaviors that mentally strong people avoid. By avoiding these behaviors, you can feel more in control of your life no matter what is going on externally.
They Don’t Engage in Self-Pity
Feeling sad over a painful experience is natural, yet wallowing in self-pity can strip us of our power. Life inevitably has pain, but our reaction to it is a choice. Choose self-compassion over self-pity. Acknowledge your pain, but don’t let it become your identity.
They Don’t Live in the Past
Clinging to pain hinders progress. Focusing on the lessons learned allows us to move beyond the hurt. Gaining wisdom from past experiences can help us to make better choices for the future.
They Don’t Give Their Power Away
Blaming others for your emotions gives away your power. It’s up to you to regulate your feelings. By owning your emotions, you empower yourself.
They Don’t People Please
People pleasing is often a sign of poor boundaries and a defense mechanism to keep people from being upset. Consider saying no to things you don’t want to do.
They Don’t Focus on Things They Can’t Control
Although there are many things you cannot change, there are things that you can change and even influence. Focusing more on what you can change empowers you to take action.
They Don’t Fear Alone Time
Solitude offers a valuable opportunity for personal growth. Taking time to be alone with our thoughts enables us to reflect on our feelings and achieve greater clarity. Adopting a self-care practice such as journaling can be a great way to monitor your thoughts and emotions.
They Don’t Avoid Change
Change can often be challenging, but embracing it allows us to grow. Moments of discomfort can lead us to the best version of ourselves.
They Don’t Avoid Taking Risks
Fear can often prevent us from taking risks. Although scary, a risk can lead to a great reward. Consider taking small risks to get more comfortable with big risks.
They Don’t Make the Same Mistakes
Part of being human is making mistakes. Mistakes do not define us. They are opportunities to learn what we can do differently.
They Don’t Rely on Instant Gratification
It is common to have goals, but it takes time to achieve them. Instead of focusing on the outcome, enjoy the process. Put forth your best effort and remain patient.
They Don’t Feel Entitled
When we have the belief that the world owes us, we run the risk of being disappointed. Develop an internal locus of control. Consider the actions you can take to achieve your goals.
They Don’t Envy People’s Sucess
Jealousy is a natural emotion, yet it can become harmful without self-awareness. Rather than feeling threatened by another’s achievements, let them inspire you. The success of others can serve as a motivation for what you can achieve.
They Don’t Give Up Easily
Failure is only permanent when we give up. When we push through setbacks, we pave the way to success.