What does inner strength mean to you? It’s about facing your fears bravely. It’s about standing up for yourself and your beliefs. It’s about living the life you crave—and deserve.
It’s never too late to discover your inner strength. But it does take work. Here are 9 daily practices to help you sharpen your edge. Onward, dear readers!
The best way to discover your inner strength and mental fortitude is to start saying no. When people make unreasonable demands or ask for something you can’t give, tell them no. It may be hard at first, but you need to set those boundaries for your own wellbeing.
We live in a society that really enjoys instant gratification. But you know what they say—good things come to those who wait. Be patient, and don’t derail your goals for the easy prize. A fast-food milkshake is nice now, but being fit and healthy is more rewarding in the long run.
Give thanks for what you have instead of complaining about what you don’t!
People who focus on their problems tend to be unhappier and less successful than those who practice gratitude. Try keeping a thankfulness journal where you write down your blessings at the end of the day.
Realistic optimism means that you understand the challenges you face but are hopeful and confident that you’ll succeed. It’s much better than being gloomy, and it’s more effective than believing that everything will just turn out all right on its own.
Who cares if your neighbor’s house is bigger than yours? What does it matter someone else’s grandkids got into a better college? Comparisons like that strip you of energy and make you jealous. Instead, try to be glad for them and move on.
Some people are never at fault. Have you noticed that? No matter, someone else is to blame. Don’t be like those people. Admit to your mistakes—but don’t make excuses for other people, either.
You know that voice that tells you that you aren’t good enough, that you won’t succeed? That’s your inner critic, and it can go sit in time-out! Acknowledge your negative thoughts but don’t dwell on them. They aren’t ultimately very helpful.
This is tough, especially as we get older. Our limitations aren’t the same as they were in our 20s, 30s, or 40s. Push yourself—but not over the line to where you become burned out or injured.
If you’re never scared, it means you never leave your comfort zone. And believe it or not, a little fear is good for you! I’m not saying you should get on a rollercoaster or wander through a haunted house, but try something new even though you’re frightened.
