Mia Zhang
As human beings, we all strive for mental strength and resilience. However, what separates the mentally strong from the rest isn’t just about what they do, but also what they don’t do.
This is especially crucial to understand as there are certain patterns of behavior and thought processes that can undermine mental strength and stall personal growth.
Mental strength refers to the resilience and fortitude people possess that helps them navigate through challenges and bounce back from failures. It’s not about appearing tough; it’s about being psychologically resilient.
So, let’s dive into nine things that mentally strong people don’t do, as substantiated by psychology.
1) They don’t waste energy on things they can’t control
This can be as subtle as worrying about tomorrow’s weather, or as significant as fretting over global affairs.
However, mentally strong people understand that their energy is a precious resource and should be used wisely. They know that focusing on uncontrollable events does nothing but drain their mental strength and create unnecessary stress.
Rather than trying to control everything, they focus on their response to situations. They understand that this is where their power lies. This might be hard to grasp at first, but once mastered, it’s a game-changer for mental strength.
Instead of attempting to steer the uncontrollable, mentally strong individuals adapt and adjust, knowing that change is a part of life. They embrace it, adapt to it, and move forward with resilience and flexibility.
2) They don’t fear taking calculated risks
This doesn’t mean they act impulsively or recklessly; rather, they carefully assess the pros and cons before making a decision.
Fear of the unknown can be a significant barrier for many, but mentally strong people don’t let fear dictate their actions. They understand that risk is a part of life and that avoiding it means avoiding growth and progress.
They evaluate the potential benefits and consequences, consider the worst-case scenario, and then make an informed choice. This level-headed approach to risk-taking allows them to step out of their comfort zone without unnecessarily jeopardizing their well-being.
3) They don’t avoid alone time
They don’t perceive solitude as something to be dodged or feared. Instead, they see it as a chance to reflect, plan, and recharge.
They know that in order to be their best selves for others, they need to first look after themselves. This includes taking time out from the hustle and bustle of daily life to simply be with their thoughts, without the noise and distractions.
While many might associate being alone with loneliness or boredom, mentally strong individuals see it as an opportunity for self-improvement and introspection. They use this time to nurture their mental health, explore their thoughts and emotions, and cultivate self-awareness.
4) They don’t shy away from difficult conversations
Whether it’s confronting a friend about a hurtful comment, discussing a work issue with a colleague, or expressing feelings in a relationship, they don’t shy away from these challenging discussions.
They know it’s uncomfortable, they know it can be messy, but they also know that open, honest communication is the key to resolution and growth. They’re not after the easy way out – they’re after the right way out.
They approach these conversations with empathy and respect, but also with assertiveness. They stand up for themselves and their values, even when it’s hard. They speak their truth, even when their voice shakes.
By not avoiding difficult conversations, they foster better relationships, increase understanding, and maintain their mental integrity.
5) They don’t hold grudges
One thing you’ll rarely find a mentally strong person doing is holding onto a grudge. They understand that holding onto anger and resentment does more damage to themselves than to the person they’re upset with.
They know that forgiveness is not about endorsing someone’s poor behavior, but rather about freeing themselves from the burden of bitterness. They choose to let go, not necessarily because the other person deserves forgiveness, but because they deserve peace.
Instead of dwelling on the pain caused by others, they focus on healing and moving forward. They empathize, understanding that everyone makes mistakes, and choose kindness over retaliation.
6) They don’t fear change
Change can be daunting for many of us. It’s human nature to seek comfort in familiarity and routine. However, mentally strong people don’t let fear of change hold them back.
They understand that change is a part of life. Whether it’s a job transition, a move to a new city, or a shift in a relationship, they embrace these changes rather than resisting them.
They acknowledge that change can be uncomfortable, even scary at times. But they also know that growth doesn’t happen in comfort zones. They see change as an opportunity to evolve, learn and grow rather than a threat to their stability.
7) They don’t take themselves too seriously
They know they’re not perfect, and they’re completely fine with that.
They can laugh at themselves when they make mistakes, knowing that errors are a part of being human. Instead of dwelling on their missteps, they learn from them and move forward with a sense of humor.
They don’t let their ego get in the way of their happiness. They find joy in the simple things and aren’t afraid to be silly or spontaneous from time to time.
By not taking themselves too seriously, they maintain a balanced perspective on life. This approach not only makes them more enjoyable to be around, but it also contributes to their mental strength by fostering resilience and a positive mindset.
8) They don’t neglect self-care
In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and forget about taking care of ourselves. But mentally strong people know better. They understand that self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.
They make time for exercise, eat nutritious food, get enough sleep, and engage in activities they enjoy. They know that physical health is intricately linked with mental health.
And self-care goes beyond just physical wellness. They also prioritize their emotional well-being. They set boundaries, say no when they need to, and take time for relaxation and stress relief.
9) They don’t stop learning and growing
Perhaps the most significant hallmark of mentally strong people is their commitment to continuous learning and growth. They understand that mental strength isn’t a destination—it’s a lifelong journey.
They’re always open to new experiences and ideas, always looking for ways to improve. They don’t shy away from feedback or constructive criticism; instead, they see it as an opportunity to learn and grow.
They remain curious, always seeking knowledge and understanding. They strive not for perfection, but for progress. By never stopping their journey of learning and growth, they continue to build their mental strength and resilience.
Final thoughts
Being mentally strong doesn’t mean you have to have it all figured out, or that you never face emotional turmoil. It’s about tapping into your resilience and learning how to navigate through life’s ups and downs.
In the end, remember that being mentally strong isn’t about adopting all these behaviors overnight. It’s a steady journey of growth and self-improvement.
You might not be able to tick off all nine points right now, and that’s okay. Building mental strength is a lifelong journey, not a sprint. Go easy on yourself as you navigate this path.
