People with genuine inner strength usually live by these 8 rules

We all aspire to be strong, don’t we?

I mean, who wouldn’t want to possess an unwavering inner strength that can weather any storm?

But here’s the thing… it’s not as easy as it seems.

Some of us may feel like we have it, only to crumble when adversity hits. Others may think they’re weak, when in fact, they’re stronger than they give themselves credit for.

Inner strength isn’t always obvious, and sometimes, we need a little guidance to uncover it.

That’s why today, I’m going to share with you 7 rules that people with genuine inner strength live by.

A word of caution though: these rules are not the be-all and end-all of inner strength. They are simply guideposts that can help you navigate your journey.

So let’s dive in, shall we? Let’s discover what it truly means to be strong from within.

1. Embrace vulnerability

Now, this might seem counterintuitive. Isn’t strength about being tough and impervious to harm?

Well, not really.

I remember a time when I thought the same. I used to believe that being strong meant building an impenetrable wall around myself. But all it did was leave me feeling isolated and disconnected.

It was only when I found the courage to embrace my vulnerabilities that things began to change. I realized that it’s okay not to have all the answers and it’s okay to admit when you’re hurt.

People with genuine inner strength understand this. They know that vulnerability isn’t a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of courage and authenticity.

Practical Tip: Start a reflection journal where you can jot down your fears, uncertainties, and emotional challenges. Sharing these with a trusted friend or family member can also help in embracing vulnerability.

2. Practice gratitude

Gratitude – such a simple word, yet so powerful.

I wasn’t always a grateful person. Like many others, I often focused on what was missing in my life rather than what I already had.

But then I started a gratitude journal. Every night before bed, I would write down three things I was grateful for that day. It could be anything – the morning coffee, a good book, a friend’s laughter.

And guess what? It transformed my perspective. Instead of feeling like I was in a constant state of lack, I began to appreciate the abundance around me.

This is something that people with inner strength do naturally. They recognize the importance of acknowledging and appreciating the good in their lives. They understand that gratitude fosters positivity and resilience, essential components of inner strength.

Practical Tip: Besides keeping a gratitude journal, make it a daily habit to verbally express gratitude to people around you. It could be thanking a colleague for their help or a family member for their support.

3. Maintain a growth mindset

Did you know that the brain is like a muscle? The more you use it, the stronger it gets. This is the essence of a growth mindset, as proposed by psychologist Carol Dweck.

People with inner strength often uphold this belief. They see challenges as opportunities to learn and grow, rather than obstacles to overcome. They understand that failures are not dead ends but stepping stones towards success.

With every adversity, they train their mind to become more resilient, just like exercising a muscle. Their strength comes from their unwavering belief in their ability to develop and improve, no matter what life throws at them.

Practical Tip: Embrace a lifelong learning approach by setting aside time each week to learn something new, whether it’s a skill, a language, or exploring a topic you’re curious about.

4. Show kindness to others

In a world where you can be anything, be kind. This isn’t just a popular quote circulating on social media. It’s a way of life for those with genuine inner strength.

They understand that kindness isn’t a weakness. Quite the opposite, it requires strength to extend compassion to others, especially in difficult circumstances. It’s easy to react with anger or frustration when someone wrongs you. But it takes a stronger person to respond with kindness and understanding.

But here’s the beautiful part: kindness doesn’t just benefit the receiver. It has a profound impact on the giver too. When you choose kindness, you choose love over hate, compassion over judgement, connection over division. And in doing so, you nurture your own inner strength.

Practical Tip: Volunteer your time or skills in your local community. Acts of service can be a powerful way to exhibit kindness and build inner strength.

5. Embrace change

If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my life, it’s that change is inevitable.

I remember when I moved to a new city for my first job. I was excited but also terrified. I didn’t know anyone, and everything was unfamiliar. It was a time of great change and uncertainty for me.

But instead of resisting it, I chose to embrace it. I explored the city, made new friends, and tried things I’d never done before. It was challenging, yes, but it was also one of the most enriching experiences of my life.

Those with inner strength understand this. They know that change is not something to be feared or avoided but embraced. They see change as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. Because they know that it’s through navigating the winds of change that we truly find our strength.

Practical Tip: Try something new every week, be it trying a new food, picking up a new hobby or attending a social event. This helps in becoming more adaptable to change.

6. Value authenticity

The world is full of facades. We’re often encouraged to put on a mask, to fit into a certain mold. But people with genuine inner strength? They value authenticity above all else.

They understand that trying to be someone they’re not is not only exhausting but also unfulfilling. They choose to be true to themselves, even if it means going against the grain. They are not afraid to express their feelings and opinions, even when they’re unpopular.

But here’s the key: their authenticity is not about being self-centered or dismissive of others. It’s about being honest, genuine, and respectful – to themselves and to others.

Practical Tip: Practice self-reflection to understand your values and beliefs. Stand by your values in your daily interactions, even when it’s challenging.

7. Take care of their mental health

Now this is something I cannot emphasize enough – mental health matters. Just as we take care of our physical health, we need to take care of our mental health too.

I’ve had my fair share of burnouts and breakdowns in the past. It was during one such period that I realized how crucial it was to prioritize my mental well-being. I started practicing mindfulness, seeking therapy when needed, and giving myself permission to rest.

People with inner strength understand the importance of this. They know that taking care of their mental health isn’t a sign of weakness but rather a testament to their strength. They recognize that a healthy mind is fundamental to resilience, courage, and inner peace.

Practical Tip: Schedule regular self-care activities into your week, be it exercise, meditation, or engaging in hobbies that relax and rejuvenate you. If needed, don’t hesitate to seek professional counseling to work through mental health challenges.

8. Keep moving forward

Life is tough. It throws curveballs at us when we least expect it. But those with inner strength? They keep moving forward.

They understand that progress is not about speed but about direction. They may stumble and fall along the way, but they always get back up and keep going.

Just like a river that keeps flowing despite the rocks in its path, they navigate through life’s challenges with determination and perseverance. They never lose sight of their goals, and they never give up on their dreams.

Practical Tip: Set clear short-term and long-term goals. When faced with challenges, remind yourself of these goals and the steps needed to continue moving forward.

Conclusion

Remember, inner strength is not about being invincible. It’s about being resilient in the face of adversity.

It’s about embracing vulnerability, practicing gratitude, maintaining a growth mindset, showing kindness, embracing change, valuing authenticity, taking care of your mental health, and always moving forward.

These are the rules that people with genuine inner strength live by. And now, they’re yours to live by too.