It’s important for every one of us to have mental strength as people.

This doesn’t just mean we’re resilient, but also that we hold a strong sense of self-worth and respect for ourselves.

These characteristics can often be hard to come by in a world where we’re constantly faced with challenges and hardships.

But psychology suggests that those with high mental strength exhibit certain traits that set them apart from the average person.

In this article, we’ve compiled several indicative signs of mental strength for you to identify in yourself.

So if you want to measure your mental strength, keep reading.

1) Embracing challenges

Embracing challenges doesn’t necessarily mean you’re always eager for the next mountain to climb.

Sometimes, it can be as subtle as acknowledging the challenge and gathering your courage to face it head-on.

And often, people with high mental strength exhibit this trait without even realizing it.

If this is you, maybe you find yourself drawn to problems that require solutions. Or perhaps you don’t shy away from situations that push you out of your comfort zone.

In some instances, you may even find that tackling a challenge gives you a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment.

Rather than being daunted by difficulties, you see them as opportunities for growth and self-improvement.

These are all signs that you possess a level of mental strength that surpasses the average person.

You don’t just endure tough times; you embrace them, grow from them, and come out stronger on the other side.

2) Emotional intelligence

Understanding and managing your emotions isn’t always an easy task.

But if you find yourself capable of doing this more often than not, it’s a good sign of mental strength.

You might be able to identify your feelings accurately, not just in light-hearted moments but also during times of stress and conflict.

You don’t just react impulsively; you take a step back to process what you’re feeling before responding.

Even more than that, you understand the emotions of others. You can empathize with people, showing compassion and understanding even when their experiences are vastly different from your own.

This ability to understand feelings indicates a mental strength that goes beyond the norm.

3) Accepting failure

Failure often carries a negative connotation.

So if you find yourself viewing failure not as a setback but as a step towards success, then you are exhibiting a significant sign of mental strength.

You have experienced failures in your life, both big and small. However, instead of letting these failures pull you down, you learn from them.

You understand that failure is not the end of the road but a part of the journey towards achieving your goals. Each failure is an opportunity for you to grow, learn and better prepare yourself for future challenges.

Your ability to transform failure into a learning experience, and your resilience in the face of adversity, sets you apart as a person with remarkable mental strength.

4) Acknowledging vulnerability

In a world where we’re often told to “stay strong” and hide our weaknesses, acknowledging vulnerability can feel like a defeat.

But you have the courage to admit your fears, your insecurities, and your weaknesses, and it shows your mental strength.

You understand that being vulnerable doesn’t make you weak. On the contrary, it takes an immense amount of strength to be open about your flaws and insecurities.

You don’t pretend to be perfect or put on a facade. Instead, you own up to your mistakes, apologize when necessary, and are not afraid to seek help when you’re struggling.

These all show that you have the courage to be authentically yourself without fearing judgment or criticism.

5) Extending compassion

These days, everyone seems to be in a constant rush. Because of this, it’s easy to become self-centered.

However, if you find yourself consistently extending kindness and understanding towards others, it’s a sign of mental strength.

You regularly go out of your way to help others, even when it’s not convenient for you. You empathize with people and understand their struggles, even when they’re different from your own.

You don’t judge others for their mistakes but offer support and encouragement instead. You understand that everyone is fighting their own battles, and a little compassion can go a long way.

Being able to extend compassion towards others, despite your own challenges, shows an extraordinary level of mental strength.

It shows that you value human connection and understand the power of kindness in a world that often forgets it.

6) Appreciating alone time

In a society where being social and outgoing is often praised, enjoying your own company might seem out of the ordinary.

But if you find comfort and peace in spending time alone, it’s a sign of mental strength.

You might enjoy solo activities like reading, journaling, or going for a walk by yourself. You don’t always need the company of others to feel content.

You understand the importance of self-reflection and use your alone time to recharge and reconnect with yourself. You’re comfortable with your own thoughts and emotions, and you don’t rely on others for validation or happiness.

Appreciating your alone time and using it productively indicates a level of mental strength that many may not possess.

It shows that you’re comfortable being with yourself, which is an essential aspect of personal growth and self-acceptance.

7) Embracing change

Change can be scary for many of us. We often find comfort in the familiar and the predictable.

But those of us with mental strength know how to welcome change with open arms.

You might even get a little excited when things start to shift in your life. New job? Bring it on. Moving to a new city? Sounds like an adventure!

You understand that change is a part of life, and it often brings new opportunities and experiences. You don’t resist change; you adapt and make the most of it.

8) Taking responsibility

Life is full of ups and downs, and it’s easy to point fingers when things go wrong.

This is why taking responsibility for your actions shows mental strength.

Maybe you messed up at work, or said something you shouldn’t have in the heat of the moment. Instead of making excuses or blaming others, you own your mistakes.

You understand that you’re not perfect, and you’re going to mess up sometimes—we all do. But it’s how you handle these situations that defines your character.

Taking responsibility isn’t always easy or comfortable, but it’s necessary for personal growth and integrity.

Your willingness to own up to your actions and learn from your mistakes demonstrates a level of mental strength that commands respect.

9) Prioritizing self-care

In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to neglect our own needs.

But if you prioritize self-care, recognizing its importance not just for your physical health, but for your mental and emotional wellbeing as well, then you’re displaying a crucial sign of mental strength.

You make time for regular exercise, a healthy diet, adequate sleep, or even just a few quiet moments to yourself each day. You understand that you can’t pour from an empty cup and that taking care of yourself is not selfish but necessary.

You know that self-care is more than just bubble baths and spa days; it’s setting boundaries, saying no when needed, and taking care of your mental health.

Final reflections

If you’ve identified with many of the signs listed above, you’re showcasing traits that distinguish you as mentally stronger than the average person.

Still, remember that mental strength isn’t a static attribute. As with everything, it needs to be consistently worked on and developed.

Mental strength isn’t simply acting tough; it’s feeling empowered to overcome life’s challenges.

But just as importantly, mental strength means showing compassion to others and ourselves. It’s acknowledging our own vulnerability and understanding that it’s okay not to be perfect.

As you move forward, consider how these signs of mental strength manifest in your life. Reflect on areas where you excel and areas where there’s room for growth.

Here’s to a mentally stronger you!