If someone remains calm in a crisis, you know they’re mentally strong. If someone embraces change, you know they’re adaptable.
Basic snapshots of human resilience, right?
Yet, the landscape of mental strength is far from basic. It’s a complex web, woven with experiences and trials that shape us as we age.
But some folks seem to navigate this journey with more grace. They display 8 distinct behaviors that hint at their growing mental fortitude.
So buckle up, as we delve into the world of these seasoned warriors and their extraordinary mental strength.
1) Embracing change
Life has a funny way of throwing curveballs, doesn’t it?
One moment you’re comfortably cruising, and the next, you’re spun around and dumped into uncharted waters. These abrupt changes can be jarring, leaving us floundering to regain our balance.
But here’s the thing about people who grow mentally stronger with age – they don’t just regain their balance; they do a full pirouette and waltz through the changes.
Change, to them, isn’t something to be feared or resisted. It’s an opportunity for growth, a chance to learn something new, to challenge their perceptions and test their strengths.
They take each change in stride, adapting and adjusting their sails to steer towards their destination. And if they’re blown off course? They simply chart a new one.
Being adaptable is much more than just surviving the storm; it’s about learning how to dance in the rain.
Now that’s what I call mental strength!
2) Accepting feedback
I’ll be honest, there was a time when criticism felt like a punch to the gut.
I remember an incident from my early career days. I’d worked day and night on a project, pouring my heart and soul into it. But when I presented it to my boss, he pointed out several areas that needed improvement. I was devastated.
But as I’ve grown older (and a bit wiser), I’ve started seeing feedback in a new light.
Now, I realize that feedback, even if it’s negative, is not a personal attack. It’s an opportunity to learn and grow. That incident with my boss?
It wasn’t about him undermining my effort; it was about him seeing my potential and pushing me to do better.
People who grow mentally stronger with age understand this. They don’t let criticism bring them down; instead, they use it as a stepping stone to reach greater heights.
And believe me, once you adopt this mindset, you become virtually unstoppable.
3) Practicing gratitude
In the high-speed world we live in, it’s easy to get caught up in the chase. We’re always reaching for more – more money, more success, more things. But people who become mentally stronger as they age have a different approach.
They make a habit of slowing down and appreciating what they already have. And here’s the fascinating part – research shows that practicing gratitude can actually rewire our brains to be happier and more content.
These folks understand that gratitude isn’t just about saying ‘thank you’. It’s a mindset, an attitude that focuses on the positive aspects of life, even when things are tough.
And when you start seeing the glass as half full rather than half empty, you’ll realize it’s not just about mental strength; it’s about cultivating a life filled with joy and fulfillment.
4) Prioritizing self-care
You’ve probably heard the phrase “you can’t pour from an empty cup”. It’s an adage that holds a lot of truth, especially when it comes to mental strength.
People who grow stronger mentally as they age understand the importance of self-care. They’re not afraid to take time out for themselves, to rest and recharge.
But self-care isn’t just about bubble baths and spa days. It’s about maintaining a healthy lifestyle – regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep. It’s about setting boundaries and saying ‘no’ when things get too overwhelming.
And most importantly, it’s about acknowledging your own needs and taking care of them. Because at the end of the day, you’re your own best friend. And if you don’t look after yourself, who will?
5) Surrounding themselves with positivity
I’ve always believed in the power of positive energy. The people you surround yourself with can greatly influence your thoughts, actions, and overall outlook on life.
As I’ve grown older, I’ve become more selective about the company I keep. I consciously choose to be around people who uplift me, motivate me, and make me want to be a better person.
People who become mentally stronger as they age understand this. They value quality over quantity when it comes to relationships. They’re not afraid to distance themselves from negativity or toxicity.
After all, life’s too short to spend it around people who drain your joy. Surround yourself with positivity and watch how it transforms your perspective and enhances your mental strength. I know it did for me.
6) Embracing failure
Failure, for most of us, is a dreaded word. It’s seen as a sign of weakness, a setback, a reason to give up.
But those who grow mentally stronger with age have a different perspective. They see failure not as a roadblock but as a stepping stone on the path to success.
They understand that failure is an inherent part of life and growth. It’s through our mistakes and missteps that we learn the most valuable lessons.
Instead of shying away from failure, they embrace it. They analyze what went wrong, learn from their mistakes, and use that knowledge to better themselves.
Believe it or not, it’s this unique approach to failure that often becomes the foundation of their mental strength.
7) Practicing patience
In a world that constantly pushes us for instant results and gratification, patience can sometimes feel like a lost virtue.
However, people who grow mentally stronger with age understand the immense value of patience. They know that real growth, change, and success take time. It’s not a sprint but a marathon.
They don’t rush through life in a frenzy to get to the finish line. Instead, they take their time, savoring each moment and learning from each experience.
Practicing patience allows them to stay focused and resilient amidst the ups and downs of life. It’s a testament to their mental strength and a key behavior that sets them apart.
8) Cultivating self-awareness
Of all the behaviors that contribute to mental strength, cultivating self-awareness is perhaps the most significant.
People who become mentally stronger as they age have a deep understanding of who they are. They’re aware of their strengths, weaknesses, emotions, beliefs, and motivations.
This self-awareness allows them to align their actions with their values, make informed decisions, and navigate life with authenticity and grace.
It’s not just about becoming stronger; it’s about becoming the best version of oneself. And in my opinion, there’s no greater strength than that.
Reflecting on mental strength
If you’ve journeyed with me to this point in the article, you’re likely to have realized that people who grow mentally stronger as they age are genuinely inspiring individuals.
Their strength doesn’t come from a place of arrogance or superiority. Quite the contrary, it’s rooted in self-awareness, patience, and a deep understanding of their place in the grand scheme of things.
These folks understand that mental strength isn’t about bulldozing through life’s obstacles. It’s about navigating them with grace, learning from each setback, and emerging stronger on the other side.
As Theodore Roosevelt once said, “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” It’s this spirit of resilience, adaptability, and unyielding optimism that defines mental strength.
So as we part ways on this topic, consider this: Are there areas in your life where you can cultivate these behaviors? Remember, it’s never too late to grow stronger.
Just something to ponder on…
