Strength

STRENGTH! We all have had to and will need to continue to muster strength over the course of our lives. Oftentimes, when people hear the word strength, they automatically think of the physical - one's muscles. However, strength is so much more. Yes, it is physical, but it is also mental, emotional, social and academic. Strength is perseverance. It is persistence. It is resilience. It is fortitude. It is grit. It is power. It is necessary.

What else is strength? It is difficult. Sarah Plumatallo, an educator, insightfully notes ​"This trait is hard. It's hard on purpose. When we persevere, we grow. But that growth is often painful and accompanied by so many opportunities for an out. What comes easy for some seems near impossible to others. Displaying [strength] and perseverance is hard, but it is important because it is an indicator of future success. To persevere, even in the small moments is to persevere over the long-term...it is striving for excellence in the face of adversity, and never giving up on a goal."

Amy Morin, LCSW identifies the following 5 Powerful Exercises To Increase Your Mental Strength:

1. Evaluate Your Core Beliefs

2. Expend Your Mental Energy Wisely

3. Replace Negative Thoughts with Productive Thoughts

4. Practice Tolerating Discomfort

5. Reflect on Your Progress Daily

Check out her rationale for each exercise here!