During these times, our mental health is tested.  It’s important for us to stay mentally strong so we can serve those around us.  Here are eight things mentally strong people do every day. 

1.     Stewarding Mental Energy

It’s easy to get distracted throughout the day by a variety of unimportant and unproductive tasks. Mentally strong people choose to use their time and energy carefully. They devote their efforts to the things that matter most so they can accomplish their goals. 

2.     Self-Compassion & Reframe thinking

Everyone has negative thoughts sometimes, but mentally strong people don't let those thoughts hold them back or drag them down. Instead, they respond to their pessimistic predictions and harsh criticisms with a more productive inner dialogue. They stay motivated to do their best by talking to themselves like a trusted friend or a helpful coach.

3.     Clarity of Vision & Goals

Mentally strong people establish clear personal and professional goals that give them meaning and purpose. They forgo immediate gratification by keeping their long-term goals in mind, and they view obstacles as challenges, rather than roadblocks to their success

4.     Daily Growth Focus

Mentally strong people reflect on their progress toward their goals every day. They set aside time to examine what they're doing well, and they humbly acknowledge areas that need improvement. They hold themselves accountable for mistakes and they constantly strive to grow better.

5.     Embrace Growing Pains

While some people go to great lengths to avoid any type of distress, others endure pain simply to prove they're tough. Neither of these perspectives is helpful. Mentally strong people, however, tolerate discomfort when it serves a greater purpose. Whether they're exercising when they feel tired, or they're delivering a speech when they feel terrified, they use their pain to become better.

6.     Practice Gratitude

You can't be at your best if you're insisting you deserve better. Mentally strong people acknowledge that they already have everything they need. They recognize their good fortune and express gratitude for all things big and small.

7.     Balance Emotion with Logic

Mentally strong people know their feelings play a major role in their perceptions and behavior. They pay close attention to the ways their emotions could influence their judgment, and they carefully balance their emotions with logic so they can make the best possible decisions.

8.     Live According To Values

Although it may be tempting to measure your self-worth by comparing yourself to your competition mentally strong people don’t fall prey to such distractions. They focus on living according to their values and doing their best, despite their circumstances. At the end of the day they don’t ask themselves, “Did I beat everyone else?” Instead, they ask, “Did I stay true to my values?”

What about you?  What are you doing every day to stay mentally strong? 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Guest Blog Post by Joel Pukalo. Joel is a Christian Psychologist at Family Life Psychology. He serves on the advisory council of the Wellness Center at Spruce Grove Community Church.