If you have these 9 personality traits, you have a very strong personality (according to psychology)

Every person has a unique personality, but there are certain traits that can make it stronger than most. As Lachlan Brown, the founder of Hack Spirit, I’ve spent years dissecting what makes some people truly stand out.

According to psychology, there are nine particular traits that signify a strong personality. It’s not about being loud or dominating, it’s about having a certain presence and impact on those around you.

In this article, I’ll be diving into these nine characteristics that mark you as someone with a strong personality. Is it your resilience? Your boldness? Or maybe it’s your unshakeable self-belief?

These aren’t just observations, they’re backed by psychological research. The question is, do you have these traits?

Let’s find out together.

1) Resilience

One of the most defining traits of a strong personality, according to psychology, is resilience.

We all face challenges in life. It’s a part of the human experience. But what separates those with a strong personality from the rest? It’s how they handle those bumps in the road.

Resilient individuals don’t just weather the storm, they thrive in it. They see obstacles as opportunities to grow and learn. They bounce back from adversity stronger than before.

This isn’t just about being optimistic, it’s about maintaining a fighting spirit no matter what life throws at you. It’s a trait that gives you an edge in life.

If you’ve been through tough times and come out the other side stronger and more determined, you can pat yourself on the back. You’ve got one of the key traits of a strong personality: resilience.

2) Mindfulness

As the founder of Hack Spirit and an expert in Buddhism, I can attest to the significance of mindfulness in shaping strong personalities.

Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment, aware of your surroundings, and accepting of your thoughts and feelings without judgement. It’s a tenet at the core of Buddhist teachings and one that shapes a strong personality.

Those with strong personalities are often very mindful. They don’t let past regrets or future worries cloud their judgement. Instead, they focus on the present moment, making conscious and intentional decisions.

This trait allows them to navigate life with a clear mind, making them more decisive, focused, and emotionally balanced. Moreover, it fosters a deep self-awareness, allowing them to understand their strengths and weaknesses better.

3) Authenticity

Authenticity is another trait that psychologists associate with a strong personality. And on a personal note, it’s one that I deeply admire.

Being authentic means being true to yourself, your values, and your beliefs, regardless of external pressures. It means not being afraid to show your true self to the world.

Those with strong personalities are often unapologetically authentic. They’re not concerned about fitting into societal norms or meeting other people’s expectations. Instead, they’re focused on staying true to who they are and what they stand for.

Authenticity isn’t always easy. It takes courage and a strong sense of self. But those who manage to embrace this trait often find it strengthens their relationships, boosts their self-esteem, and provides them with a sense of fulfillment.

4) Compassion

In my exploration of Buddhism and my journey writing the book, Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego, I’ve discovered that compassion is a key principle that shapes a strong personality.

Compassion is about understanding the suffering of others and actively seeking to alleviate it. It’s about extending kindness not only to others but also to oneself.

In my book, I delve into how you can cultivate compassion and why it’s so vital for a fulfilling life. Those with strong personalities often exhibit high levels of compassion. They’re empathetic, understanding, and always ready to lend a helping hand.

But compassion isn’t just about being nice. It’s about being able to put yourself in someone else’s shoes, acknowledging their pain, and doing what you can to help. It requires strength of character and emotional intelligence.

If you’re someone who consistently shows compassion towards others (and yourself), you are showcasing a strong personality trait, both in the eyes of psychologists and according to Buddhist principles.

Embracing compassion not only helps others, but it also contributes to your personal growth and fulfillment. And if you need guidance on this journey, my book could serve as your roadmap.

5) Vulnerability

Now, here’s a trait that might seem counterintuitive when talking about strong personalities: vulnerability.

Often, we associate strength with invulnerability. But the reality is, acknowledging and expressing your vulnerabilities takes a great deal of courage and strength.

Those with strong personalities understand that vulnerability isn’t a weakness. Instead, it’s what makes us human and allows us to connect more deeply with others.

Being vulnerable means being open about your feelings, admitting when you’re wrong or don’t know something, and not being afraid to ask for help. It’s about letting down your guard and showing your authentic self – flaws and all.

It shows that you have the strength to be genuine and authentic, even when it means exposing your weaknesses.

6) Non-attachment

Another key principle in Buddhism that’s closely linked with a strong personality is non-attachment.

Non-attachment doesn’t mean being indifferent or uncaring. Instead, it’s about understanding the impermanence of things and not becoming overly attached to possessions, people, or outcomes.

Those with strong personalities often practice non-attachment. They understand that things change and that clinging onto them can lead to suffering. This doesn’t mean they don’t value their relationships or ambitions. Instead, they appreciate them without letting them define their happiness or self-worth.

Non-attachment allows them to navigate life’s ups and downs with grace and equanimity. It gives them the strength to let go when necessary and the wisdom to appreciate the present moment.

7) Courage

Courage is another definitive trait of a strong personality. It’s a trait I’ve had to rely on many times throughout my own journey, both personally and professionally.

Having courage doesn’t mean you’re never afraid. It means you face your fears and push forward regardless. Those with strong personalities often exhibit this form of bravery.

Whether it’s standing up for what’s right, taking risks, or stepping out of their comfort zones, these individuals don’t shy away from challenges. They’re not reckless, but they understand that growth often comes from facing the unknown.

If you’re someone who consistently chooses courage over comfort, you’re showcasing a key trait of a strong personality. It’s a testament to your resilience and determination in the face of adversity. It’s not easy, but as I can personally vouch, it’s always worth it.

8) Sensitivity

Another trait that might seem counterintuitive when associated with strong personalities is sensitivity.

We often equate strength with a sort of emotional toughness or stoicism. But, those with strong personalities can also be highly sensitive. They feel things deeply, and they’re not afraid to express their emotions.

Being sensitive doesn’t mean you’re weak or overly emotional. Instead, it’s about having a keen awareness of your feelings and the feelings of others. It’s about being in tune with your environment and recognizing subtle shifts in energy and mood.

9) Equanimity

Equanimity, a key principle in Buddhism, is also closely linked with a strong personality.

Equanimity is about maintaining a calm and balanced mind, regardless of the circumstances. It’s about accepting life’s ups and downs with grace and poise, without getting swept away by extreme emotions.

Those with strong personalities often exhibit equanimity. They remain composed under pressure and don’t let their emotions cloud their judgement. They embrace life’s highs and lows with a steady mind.

This trait allows them to navigate life’s challenges more effectively and to stay focused on their path, no matter what obstacles they encounter.

If you are able to maintain equanimity in the face of adversity, you’re demonstrating a key trait of a strong personality and embodying an important Buddhist principle.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a strong personality isn’t about being loud, assertive, or dominating. It’s about embodying traits like resilience, mindfulness, authenticity, compassion, vulnerability, non-attachment, courage, sensitivity, and equanimity.

If you see yourself in these traits, then you indeed have a strong personality according to psychology and Buddhist principles. And if you don’t, remember that personal growth is a journey. With mindfulness and intention, you can cultivate these traits within yourself.

For more insights into these traits and how they tie into Buddhist teachings, check out my book Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego. It provides practical guidance on how to live a fulfilling life while embodying these powerful traits.

Remember, having a strong personality is about being true to yourself and living with compassion and courage. It’s about navigating life’s ups and downs with grace and equanimity. And that’s a journey worth embarking on.