Life can throw a lot at us, but there are certain experiences that can really put our mental strength to the test.
These are things that may have been very painful. You might even think, “why did this have to happen to me?”
But there’s a bright silver lining – this could be the reason why you’re mentally stronger than the average person.
It doesn’t erase all the hardship you’ve been through, but it does give meaning to life’s challenges, and perhaps offer you a new way to look at your past.
Let’s have a look at what these experiences are that make you stronger than most.
1) You’ve faced failure and bounced back
We’ve all faced failure at some point in our lives. But it’s how we react to these setbacks that truly reveals our mental toughness.
It may be a business idea that flopped, or trying really hard to achieve a goal without results.
Many people crumble under the weight of failure like this, letting it define them. But not you.
If you’ve faced failure head-on, learned from it, and then bounced back even stronger, you’re showing signs of mental strength that surpasses the average person.
Failure can be a tough pill to swallow. But using it as a springboard for growth? That’s the hallmark of a mentally strong individual.
2) You’ve experienced significant loss
Experiencing loss can be one of life’s most challenging trials. And I’m not just talking about the death of a loved one, although that’s definitely a major one. Loss can also mean the end of a relationship, losing a job, or even giving up an old way of life.
I remember when I lost my job during the economic downturn a few years ago. It was a tough time for me – not just financially, but emotionally. I felt lost and uncertain about the future.
But instead of letting despair overcome me, I used this situation as a catalyst for change. I took time to reassess my career goals, learned new skills, and eventually found a better job that was more aligned with my passions.
It was a difficult journey, but having gone through it, I feel more resilient and prepared for whatever life throws at me next.
3) You’ve lived through major life changes
Major life changes can be incredibly stressful. Whether it’s moving to a new city, starting a new job, or even having a child, these significant shifts can turn your world upside down and challenge your mental strength.
However, those who can weather these changes and come out the other side stronger are showcasing their mental resilience.
Interestingly, the Holmes and Rahe Stress Scale, a widely respected tool for measuring stress levels, lists life changes as some of the most stressful events a person can experience.
Sure, they are not what you would have chosen at the time. But have you managed to handle these major life changes and grow from them? Then you’re showing an impressive level of mental strength.
4) You’ve dealt with toxic people
Handling toxic individuals is a situation that truly tests our mental strength. Whether it’s a family member, a friend, or a colleague, dealing with someone who continually brings negativity into your life can be draining.
Toxic people have a knack for creating chaos and stirring up feelings of self-doubt and fear. It’s easy to get tangled in their web of drama and negativity.
But if you’ve managed to maintain your self-esteem and emotional balance in the face of such toxicity, it shows immense mental strength. It means you’ve developed the capacity to define your own worth and not let others’ negativity affect your mental peace.
Maintaining boundaries, standing your ground, and refusing to be manipulated are all signs of a mental robustness that is far stronger than the average person’s.
5) You’ve endured heartbreak
Heartbreak is one of life’s most painful experiences. The loss of love can leave you feeling empty, lost, and utterly devastated. It’s an emotional rollercoaster that can test even the strongest among us.
But the experience of heartbreak and the subsequent healing process can also be a testament to your mental strength.
When you’re able to pick up the pieces of your broken heart, learn from the experience, and move forward with your life, it shows a resilience that is not to be underestimated.
It takes courage to open your heart again after it’s been shattered. It takes resilience to embrace hope when you’ve been consumed by despair. And if you’ve managed to do this, you’ve demonstrated a mental strength that’s truly admirable.
6) You’ve been through periods of loneliness
Loneliness can be a tough situation to navigate. It can feel like you’re isolated, with no one to share your thoughts, feelings, or experiences with.
I remember a time when I moved to a new city for work. I didn’t know anyone and felt incredibly alone. It was just me in an unfamiliar place, trying to find my footing.
But during this period, I learned to enjoy my own company. I discovered new hobbies, explored the city on my own, and gradually became comfortable with being alone.
It was a challenging time, but it taught me a lot about myself and my ability to handle solitude.
If you’ve also experienced loneliness and managed to turn it into an opportunity for self-discovery and growth, it’s a sign of your mental strength. It shows that you can be comfortable with your own company and are not dependent on others for your happiness or self-worth.
7) You’ve overcome personal insecurities
We all have insecurities, whether it’s about our looks, skills, or abilities. These self-doubts can hold us back, making us feel inadequate and preventing us from reaching our full potential.
Overcoming these insecurities requires a great deal of mental strength. It involves confronting your self-doubts, challenging negative self-beliefs, and building a positive self-image.
If you’ve managed to battle your insecurities and emerged more confident and self-assured, it’s a testament to your mental resilience. You may not be perfect, but more importantly you’re capable of introspection, personal growth, and self-improvement.
Final thoughts: Mental strength is a journey
The road to mental strength is not a straight path. It’s a journey filled with trials, tribulations, and triumphs.
American psychologist and author, Angela Duckworth, beautifully encapsulates this journey in her book “Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance“. She says, “Enthusiasm is common. Endurance is rare.”
Every challenge you’ve faced, every setback you’ve overcome, and every obstacle you’ve pushed past has contributed to your mental fortitude.
Mental strength is not about being invincible or immune to life’s hardships. It’s about facing these hardships head-on and coming out stronger on the other side.