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13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do
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13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do

Take Back Your Power, Embrace Change, Face Your Fears, and Train Your Brain for Happiness and Success

Amy Morin
William Morrow, 2014
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Editorial Rating

8

Qualities

  • Applicable

Recommendation

Everyone suffers bad experiences – career disappointments, losses and misfortunes. If you wonder why some people weather setbacks and challenges better than others, psychotherapist Amy Morin has an answer: They practice strategies that help keep them mentally strong. Her explanations of 13 behaviors to avoid and good habits to develop in their place – and the stories she tells with each entry – will spur you to think about how you handle whatever comes your way. getAbstract recommends Morin’s straightforward, relevant counsel to those seeking greater psychological strength in their personal and professional lives. She will help you skip the pity party, see failures as opportunities, not defeats, and find more peace of mind.

Summary

Are You “Mentally Strong”?

“Mental strength” is the capacity to control your feelings, discipline your thinking and take a hopeful attitude, even in the face of adversity. Everyone has some level of mental strength, and you can train yourself to enhance yours. Genetics, your character and the experiences you go through can affect the intensity of your mental strength. Although you’re born with your DNA, you have the power to alter or influence your character and your reaction to difficult experiences by working on three factors:

  1. Your thoughts – Strive to substitute sensible ideas for illogical ones.
  2. Your behaviors – Actively solve problems, face your fears and behave productively.
  3. Your emotions – You’re in charge of your feelings – not the other way around.

Mental strength doesn’t require you to act tough, think only positive thoughts or reject assistance from others. You don’t need to suppress your emotions. Mental strength calls for “thinking realistically and rationally.” For decades, psychotherapists have urged their patients to pursue mental strength. It can help you cope with...

About the Author

Amy Morin is a licensed clinical social worker and a psychotherapist. She contributes regularly to Forbes and Psychology Today.

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