Mental strength isn’t about flexing your intellectual muscle. It’s not about proving you’re the smartest one in the room. It’s about being resilient, handling stress effectively, and bouncing back from adversity.

But how can you tell if you’re mentally stronger than most people? As the founder of Hack Spirit, I’ve spent a lot of time studying psychology and human behaviour. And I’ve discovered that there are certain signs that can indicate a high level of mental strength.

In this article, I’m going to share with you 9 signs that you’re mentally stronger than most people, according to psychology. But remember folks, it’s not a competition. It’s about understanding ourselves better and striving for personal growth.

Let’s dive in.

1) You handle stress effectively

Psychological resilience is a key indicator of mental strength. And one of the biggest tests of resilience is how we handle stress.

Everyone faces stressful situations. But it’s how you respond that sets you apart. Most people may crumble, panic, or become overwhelmed. But if you’re mentally stronger than average, you remain calm, composed, and in control.

According to psychology, those with high mental strength don’t ignore stress or pretend it doesn’t exist. Instead, they acknowledge it and use effective coping strategies to deal with it. They might use mindfulness techniques, physical exercise or rational problem-solving approaches.

If you’re someone who handles stress without falling apart, you’ve already shown one of the key signs of mental strength.

But remember, we all have our off days. It’s about recognising your patterns and working towards improving them whenever you can.

2) You practice mindfulness

As an expert in Buddhism, I can tell you that one of the core teachings is the practice of mindfulness.

Mindfulness is about being present in the moment, fully aware of your surroundings, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on around you.

It’s a powerful tool for mental strength. Why? Because it promotes emotional intelligence and self-awareness, two key traits of mentally strong individuals according to psychology.

When you’re mindful, you’re not swept up in your thoughts or feelings. You don’t react impulsively or on autopilot. Instead, you respond thoughtfully and with intention.

So if you’re someone who regularly practices mindfulness — whether that’s through meditation, mindful eating, or simply paying full attention to everyday tasks — you’re demonstrating another sign of mental strength.

Mindfulness isn’t about achieving some state of eternal calm. It’s about understanding your mind and learning to work with it, not against it. And that, my friends, is a testament to true mental strength.

3) You embrace change

Change is a constant part of life, but it can be tough. I’ve personally had my fair share of curveballs thrown my way. What I’ve learned is that being open to change is a sign of mental strength.

Psychology tells us that those who are mentally strong don’t resist or fear change. Instead, they embrace it. They understand that change brings opportunities for growth and learning. They’re not stuck in their ways or clinging to comfort zones.

If you’re someone who can take changes in stride, who can adapt and pivot without falling apart, you’re demonstrating mental strength. It’s not about liking every change that comes your way. It’s about accepting that change is inevitable and learning to navigate it with grace and resilience.

I’ve found that embracing change, while challenging at times, has led to some of the most rewarding experiences in my life. And I bet if you’re mentally strong, you might say the same.

4) You understand the concept of impermanence

In Buddhism, there’s a key principle known as “anicca” or impermanence. It’s the idea that everything in life — our experiences, feelings, and even ourselves — is constantly changing.

Understanding and accepting impermanence is a sign of mental strength. When we truly grasp that nothing is permanent, it allows us to let go of attachments, reduce suffering and approach life with a more flexible mindset.

In my book, Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego, I delve deeper into this concept. I discuss how embracing impermanence can help us live more fully and freely, without being held back by fear or regret.

If you’re someone who can accept the fleeting nature of life, who doesn’t cling to the past or worry about the future, then you’re demonstrating mental strength. 

5) You’re comfortable with being uncomfortable

Sounds counterintuitive, doesn’t it? But here’s the thing: mental strength isn’t about seeking comfort all the time. It’s about being able to tolerate discomfort for the sake of growth.

Psychology tells us that those who are mentally strong don’t shy away from difficult situations or emotions. They don’t run from things that scare them or make them uncomfortable. Instead, they face them head-on.

If you’re willing to step outside your comfort zone, to challenge yourself, and to sit with discomfort without trying to immediately “fix” it, then you’re demonstrating mental strength. It’s not about enjoying discomfort — it’s about understanding that discomfort often leads to growth, and being okay with that.

This might be one of the more challenging signs to embrace, but trust me, it’s also one of the most rewarding.

6) You practice non-attachment

Another critical principle in Buddhism is non-attachment. This isn’t about renouncing worldly possessions or relationships, but rather about not clinging to things, people, or experiences. It’s about understanding that everything is transient and not becoming overly attached to outcomes.

Psychology aligns with this principle, suggesting that mentally strong individuals are able to let go of the need to control everything. They understand that life is unpredictable and that trying to control every aspect is not only futile but can also lead to significant stress and disappointment.

If you’re someone who can practice non-attachment, who understands the importance of letting go and not clinging to things, then you’re demonstrating mental strength. Remember, it’s not about indifference or resignation. It’s about embracing the nature of life and riding its waves without getting sucked under.

7) You acknowledge your weaknesses

Some might see acknowledging weaknesses as a sign of vulnerability, but I’ve learned that it’s actually a testament to mental strength. It takes courage to look at ourselves honestly and accept our flaws.

Mentally strong individuals don’t shy away from their weaknesses; they embrace them. They see them as opportunities to grow and improve. They’re not afraid to ask for help, and they don’t pretend to know everything.

I’ve had my moments of self-doubt, where acknowledging my weaknesses felt like admitting failure. But over time, I’ve realized that it’s a crucial step towards self-improvement.

If you’re someone who can openly acknowledge your weaknesses without self-deprecation, you’re demonstrating mental strength. It’s not about dwelling on your flaws; it’s about understanding yourself better and using that knowledge to grow and evolve.

8) You celebrate others’ success

This may sound counterintuitive, but celebrating others’ success is a true sign of mental strength. In a world where competition can often overshadow camaraderie, it takes a strong person to genuinely be happy for someone else’s achievements.

Psychology suggests that mentally strong individuals don’t view success as a zero-sum game. They understand that another person’s success doesn’t diminish their own. They can appreciate and celebrate it without envy or resentment.

If you’re someone who can genuinely rejoice in the victories of others, even when you’re facing your own challenges or setbacks, then you’re demonstrating mental strength. 

9) You practice compassion

A key principle in Buddhism is the practice of compassion, not just towards others, but also towards oneself. It’s about understanding the suffering of others and oneself, and taking action to alleviate it.

Psychology tells us that mentally strong individuals exhibit a high degree of compassion. They are empathetic, considerate and kind. They don’t shy away from other people’s pain, but rather try to help in any way they can.

Moreover, they also know how to be compassionate towards themselves. They understand that self-care is not selfish, but essential for mental strength.

Conclusion

Mental strength isn’t about never failing or feeling pain; it’s about how you respond, grow, and persevere.

If you’re interested in diving deeper into some of the principles I’ve mentioned, particularly those rooted in Buddhism, I invite you to check out my book Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego. It’s packed with insights on how to live a meaningful life while maintaining your mental strength.

In the end, remember that mental strength is a journey, not a destination. It’s about constant growth and learning. And wherever you are on your journey, know that each step you take towards building your mental strength is a step towards a healthier, more resilient you.