Something that many people don’t seem to talk about enough is mental toughness. In this day in age, it is more important than ever to have a strong and healthy mental outlook. No, it isn’t easy, not the least bit, especially if you have had a rough life.
Having mental toughness means that we should be able to stay level-headed and resilient during challenging times. This, of course, requires an insane amount of self-discipline, no matter what the circumstances may be. It can take years to develop this ability, and it seems there are no shortcuts.
For me personally I am currently going through some pretty tough stuff and have been for some time now. This is extremely difficult to admit based on the fact that this is Ridiculously Enjoy Life. But the only way to have an amazing life is to have a rollercoaster effect of highs and lows. “This too shall pass,” and I still have my positive disposition.
If we don’t go through the ups and downs, we would truly never understand and value happiness. After all, emotions are based on our experiences in life. I try not to sit for too long with sadness or despair, because if too much time goes by in this state, it could be a way of life. The negativity can take over and make it extremely difficult to see the light at the end of the tunnel.
To develop mental toughness, we need to have some of the following:
- Learn to regulate your emotions. Figure out how your triggers are activated. Figure out how you respond to your triggers. Develop coping mechanisms that are healthy for progress. Take deep breaths.
- Be committed. You have to know your why. Why do you want to develop your mental fortitude? How do you want it to help you in the future? Refuse to give up.
- Get focused. You have to be in the present moment and really try to be attentive to the matter at hand. As said before, mental toughness is a skill developed over time.
- Get a drive. Motivation helps, and please remember to apply action. Motivation is just hopes and dreams without action.
- Take on new things. Challenge yourself to take on new challenges. Try to look at things from the perspective that you can grow and develop from each new thing.
- Become resilient. Being able to bounce back when things are not going too well is also another great skill. Bad things happen, so keep that in mind. You will be ok.
- Have self-confidence. Admit to yourself that you are competent. When you can take ownership of the fact that you are competent to do anything, then and only then will you be able to have self-confidence.
If you can master the above, you are well on your way to having mental toughness. You will have a better overall mindset filled with positivity, and you should be able to be a good problem solver. Adapt, grow, and learn to make good decisions when times are tough. In the end, you should have been able to cultivate the skill of perseverance. Keep getting after it!
Conclusion
Developing mental toughness is absolutely tough for sure, but it will be extremely worth it when things go chaotic. Remember to take deep breaths throughout ordeals. Additionally, if you haven’t already developed a growth mindset, you’d better get started now. I am rooting for you on whatever comes your way.
