You know those people who always seem to keep their cool, even when life throws them a curveball?

The ones who remain calm in the face of adversity, and seemingly never let stress get the better of them?

Well, I’ve been curious about them.

What makes them tick?

How do they manage to stay so mentally strong?

Turns out, it might not be as elusive as we think. Believe it or not, these individuals actually tend to display a set of specific behaviors that help them maintain their mental fortitude.

And here’s the kicker.

You might already be practicing some of these behaviors without even realizing it.

So let’s dive in, shall we? 

1) They embrace change

Change is inevitable. It’s a part of life.

But let’s be honest, it can be downright daunting at times.

Yet, those who remain mentally strong seem to have a different perspective.

Instead of fearing change, they embrace it. They understand that change is often a catalyst for growth.

In the face of uncertainty, they remain flexible and adaptable.

That’s because they see change as an opportunity to learn, evolve, and become better versions of themselves.

Consider that change isn’t something to fear but something to welcome.

2) They set healthy boundaries

This one, I can speak to from personal experience.

A few years back, I found myself constantly feeling drained and overwhelmed.

It felt like everyone wanted a piece of me, and I, being the ever-obliging person, was more than willing to give.

Until it got too much.

I realized that by always saying yes, I was saying no to my own needs and well-being.

It was then that I understood the importance of setting boundaries.

People who stay mentally strong know when to draw the line.

They understand that saying no sometimes doesn’t make them selfish or unkind; it simply means they’re taking care of their mental health.

Sure, setting boundaries might feel uncomfortable at first, but trust me, it’s crucial for maintaining your sanity in this chaotic world.

3) They don’t shy away from pain

This one’s real. It’s raw. It’s life.

Pain happens. People who stay mentally strong understand this in a way that many of us struggle to.

They don’t bury their heads in the sand, pretending everything’s okay when it’s not. They don’t numb the pain with distractions or quick fixes.

Instead, they allow themselves to feel. To hurt. To heal.

And here’s the thing: It’s not about relishing in the pain, but rather acknowledging its existence.

They know that beneath the hurt often lies a lesson, an opportunity for growth.

So next time life gets tough, remember this: It’s okay to feel the pain.

It’s part of being human.

And sometimes, it’s through facing our pain head-on that we discover our true strength.

4) They practice gratitude

Now, this one might seem a little cliché, but hear me out.

These types of people have this habit of finding the good even in the most difficult situations.

They practice gratitude, and it’s not just about saying “thank you”.

They acknowledge the positive aspects of life, even when the negatives seem to outweigh them.

It’s a powerful tool for maintaining mental strength.

So why not give it a try?

Start noting down three things you’re grateful for each day, and see how it changes your perspective.

5) They exercise regularly

Get this: The World Health Organization recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week.

But it’s not just about keeping our bodies healthy; it’s about our minds too.

Regular exercise is a common habit among those who stay mentally strong.

It’s not necessarily about lifting heavy weights or running marathons, but about moving your body in a way that feels good to you.

Physical activity releases endorphins, those feel-good hormones that lift our mood and reduce stress.

The bonus?

It helps improve sleep and boosts self-confidence!

6) They offer help to others

Life can be tough, can’t it? We all have our ups and downs.

But here’s something I’ve noticed about those who stay mentally strong: they reach out and help others, even when they’re facing their own challenges.

Helping someone else can shift our focus away from our own problems.

It allows us to connect with others on a deeper level, fostering a sense of community and shared experience.

And it doesn’t have to be grand gestures.

In essence, a simple act of kindness – a comforting word, a listening ear, or a helping hand – can make a world of difference.

7) They prioritize self-care

If there’s one thing to take away from all this, it’s the importance of self-care.

These folks recognize that taking care of themselves is not a luxury, but a necessity.

And you know why?

They understand that in order to weather life’s storms, they need to ensure their own vessel is in good shape.

Self-care encompasses different aspects:

• Physical
• Mental
• Emotional

It could be taking time for a hobby, getting enough sleep, eating nutritious food, or simply spending a few quiet moments alone.

In a nutshell, it’s about honoring and nurturing yourself, so you can face life’s challenges with resilience and grace. 

Final thoughts

So you see, staying mentally strong when life gets tough isn’t some superhuman feat.

It’s about cultivating these behaviors, taking one step at a time.

Maybe you’ve recognized yourself in some of these points or maybe you’ve identified areas for growth.

Either way, that’s okay.

Remember, being mentally strong doesn’t mean being perfect. It means accepting where you are right now and having the courage to grow.

Start small. Try implementing one behavior at a time.

Celebrate your progress, no matter how tiny it might seem.

And as you journey on, remember to extend compassion to yourself, just as you would to a friend.

Because at the end of the day, the relationship you have with yourself sets the tone for all other relationships in your life.