8 signs that you are mentally stronger then the average person

There’s a clear distinction between being mentally strong and just getting by.
Mental strength isn’t about never facing challenges; it’s about knowing how to tackle them head-on. It’s the ability to keep pushing, even when the odds are stacked against you.
While anyone can develop mental strength, some of us naturally possess more of it than others. And the great news is, there are certain signs that can help you gauge your mental fortitude.
In this piece, we’ll delve into eight telltale signs that you, my friend, are mentally stronger than the average person. Buckle up and let’s see if you recognize yourself in these traits!
1) Embracing challenges
Many of us flinch at the sight of a challenge. It’s human nature to avoid discomfort.
But not for those with a strong mental disposition. If you’re the type who doesn’t back down at the sight of a challenge, but rather sees it as an opportunity for growth, then you’re displaying a key sign of mental strength.
Mentally strong people understand that stepping out of their comfort zone is where real growth happens. They don’t shy away from challenges; they embrace them.
So if you find yourself seeking out new experiences and challenges, even when they scare you, then congratulations! You’ve got one of the key traits of mental strength.
Remember, it’s not about never feeling fear or anxiety. It’s about pushing through it and growing in the process.
2) You’re not afraid to say ‘No’
Life throws a lot at us: requests, demands, invitations, and opportunities. It’s easy to fall into the trap of saying ‘yes’ to everything because you don’t want to disappoint anyone.
But here’s the thing. I’ve learned that being mentally strong means knowing when to say ‘No’.
I recall a time when my boss wanted me to take on an additional project. I was already juggling multiple tasks and knew that if I took on another, the quality of my work would suffer. So, despite the fear of coming off as lazy or uncooperative, I said ‘No’.
I explained my situation, and surprisingly, my boss understood. From that day forward, I realized that saying ‘No’ is not a sign of weakness. Rather, it’s a sign of mental strength because it shows that you value your time and understand your limits.
So if you’re someone who can respectfully decline when you’re overextended or when something doesn’t align with your values, then you’re showing another sign of mental strength.
3) You practice gratitude regularly
Gratitude isn’t just about saying ‘thank you’. It’s a mindset, a way of viewing the world. When you’re grateful, you appreciate what you have rather than constantly longing for what you don’t.
Mentally strong people tend to have this trait. They understand that focusing on the positive aspects of their life helps maintain a healthy mental state.
Interestingly, research shows that regular practice of gratitude can lead to higher levels of alertness, enthusiasm, determination, and energy. Not only that, but it also reduces stress and depression.
So if you’re someone who takes time each day to reflect on the good in your life, it’s a sign that you’re mentally stronger than most.
4) You’re comfortable being alone
In today’s hyper-connected world, being alone can sometimes feel uncomfortable. But for those with strong mental health, solitude is not only comfortable, it’s often desired.
Mentally strong people understand the value of spending time alone. It’s a chance to reflect, to recharge, and to plan. They don’t rely on constant interaction with others for their happiness or sense of self-worth.
So if you’re someone who enjoys your own company and can effectively use alone time for self-improvement and relaxation, then you’re demonstrating another clear sign of mental strength.
5) You show empathy towards others
Empathy is about understanding and sharing the feelings of others. It’s about putting yourself in someone else’s shoes, even when it’s uncomfortable.
Mentally strong people tend to be highly empathetic. They understand that everyone is fighting their own battles, often unseen. This doesn’t mean they allow themselves to be used or walked over. Instead, they balance their empathy with strong boundaries.
So if you find yourself genuinely caring for others, feeling their pain, rejoicing in their joy, and always willing to lend a listening ear, then your heart is showing the beautiful strength of your mind. It’s a clear testament to your mental strength and resilience.
6) You’re comfortable with making mistakes
Mistakes are an inevitable part of life. They can be difficult to accept, but they often provide the most valuable lessons.
I remember a project I was leading at work. Despite my best efforts, it didn’t go as planned and ended up costing us time and resources. It was a hard pill to swallow. I felt embarrassed, and my confidence took a hit.
But instead of dwelling on the failure, I chose to learn from it. I analyzed what went wrong, what could have been done differently, and how to avoid such mistakes in the future.
Mentally strong people view mistakes as stepping stones rather than roadblocks. They understand that failure is not a reflection of their worth but an opportunity for growth.
If you can make mistakes and bounce back stronger, you’re exhibiting yet another sign of mental strength.
7) You adapt to change
Change is one of the few constants in life. It can be unsettling, even scary at times. But the ability to adapt to change is a hallmark of mental strength.
Mentally strong people understand that change is often necessary for growth. They don’t resist or fear it. Instead, they welcome it, and when necessary, they initiate it.
If you’re someone who can roll with the punches, adjusting your sails to navigate the winds of change, then you’re demonstrating another significant sign of mental strength. It’s not about liking every change that comes your way but about handling it with grace and resilience.
8) You have a strong sense of self
In a world that often tries to mold us into something we’re not, maintaining a strong sense of self is a testament to mental strength.
Mentally strong people know who they are. They’re aware of their strengths and weaknesses, they understand their values, and they don’t compromise their authenticity for the sake of fitting in.
If you’re someone who stands firm in your identity, unwavering in the face of societal pressure, then you possess the most critical sign of mental strength. Know that this not only sets you apart but also serves as the foundation for all other signs of mental strength.
Final thoughts: Embrace the journey
The journey to mental strength isn’t a destination, but rather a continuous process. It’s about embracing the ups and downs, making the most of our victories, and learning from our failures.
Just like physical strength, mental strength requires consistent effort and practice. It’s about forging resilience in the face of adversity, maintaining optimism in times of stress, and staying true to yourself amidst external pressure.
Remember, every day presents an opportunity for growth. If you see these signs in yourself, celebrate your mental fortitude. If you don’t, don’t despair. With patience, effort, and persistence, you can cultivate these traits.
As renowned psychologist Albert Bandura once said “In order to succeed, people need a sense of self-efficacy, to struggle together with resilience to meet the inevitable obstacles and inequities of life”.
And that is the crux of mental strength. It’s about building that sense of self-efficacy, that belief in your ability to conquer challenges.
So take a moment to reflect on your own mental strength. Celebrate your progress and embrace the journey ahead. After all, it’s not about being better than others; it’s about being better than you were yesterday.