Life can throw us some pretty hard punches. But some people seem to weather any storm, no matter how powerful.
What’s their secret? It’s all down to habits.
People who stay strong even when life gets tough have developed certain habits that enable them to handle whatever life throws at them.
In this article, we’re going to explore these eight habits, because we believe they can help anyone become a more resilient person.
These habits are not magical solutions, but they do provide a solid foundation for tackling life’s challenges head-on. So, let’s take a look at the habits of those who stay strong, even when life gets tough.
1) Embrace change
Strong people understand that change is a part of life.
It’s not always pleasant, and it’s rarely easy. But rather than resisting change or being overwhelmed by it, they embrace it.
They know that change can bring opportunities for growth, even if it’s uncomfortable at first. They see it as a chance to learn new things, to challenge their limitations, and to become better.
This doesn’t mean they are unaffected by change. Far from it. They might feel scared or uncertain, just like anyone else.
But the key difference is that they don’t let these feelings stop them from moving forward.
Instead, they acknowledge their fears and uncertainties, and then they do what needs to be done anyway. This is one of the core habits that helps them remain strong when life gets tough.
2) Practice gratitude
One of the habits that I’ve noticed in people who stay strong during tough times is their practice of gratitude.
Now, I’m not saying that they’re always happy or that they ignore their problems. But they make it a point to find something to be grateful for, even in the midst of difficulty.
A couple of years ago, I went through a difficult period in my life. I was dealing with some serious personal issues, and it felt like my world was falling apart.
Then, I started a gratitude journal. Every day, no matter how bad things were, I would write down three things I was grateful for. Some days it was hard, and I had to really dig deep to find anything positive.
But this simple practice helped me stay grounded. It reminded me that even when things were tough, there were still good things in my life. It helped me stay strong and resilient during a time when I could have easily given up.
So practicing gratitude, even when life gets tough, is definitely a habit worth cultivating.
3) Maintain a healthy lifestyle
People who stay strong during tough times often prioritize their health. They understand that physical well-being has a direct impact on mental resilience.
Regular exercise, for instance, has been scientifically proven to reduce stress and anxiety. A study in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that moderate exercise can be as effective as antidepressants in treating mild to moderate depression.
Similarly, a balanced diet fuels the body and provides the energy needed to deal with life’s challenges. It’s much harder to stay strong when you’re running on empty, both literally and figuratively.
A good night’s sleep is also crucial. Sleep deprivation can hinder your ability to think clearly and make good decisions, which becomes all the more important during challenging times.
So, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is not just about looking good or living longer. It’s about equipping yourself with the physical and mental strength to withstand life’s trials.
4) Cultivate a positive mindset
Those who stay strong in the face of adversity often have one thing in common: a positive mindset.
This doesn’t mean they ignore reality or pretend everything is fine when it’s not. Instead, they choose to focus on solutions rather than problems. They look for the silver lining, even in the darkest clouds.
They understand that their mindset can either empower them or limit them. So they make a conscious effort to cultivate positivity.
They replace negative thoughts with positive ones. They surround themselves with positive people. They read uplifting books, listen to inspiring music, and engage in activities that bring them joy.
Remember, a positive mindset isn’t about denying the challenges of life. It’s about choosing to focus on the potential for growth and improvement, even when things get tough. This habit of cultivating a positive mindset is a key factor in their ability to stay strong during difficult times.
5) Lean on their support network
When the going gets tough, strong people don’t try to weather the storm alone. They understand the importance of a solid support network.
This might be family, close friends, a trusted mentor, or even a professional counselor. Whoever it is, these individuals provide a listening ear, sound advice, and sometimes, just the comforting presence of someone who cares.
They remind us that it’s okay to ask for help. That needing others doesn’t make us weak. On the contrary, it makes us human.
Because at the end of the day, we all need someone to lean on from time to time. And having that support network can make all the difference when life gets tough.
6) Set boundaries
Strong people understand the importance of setting boundaries. They know that saying “yes” to everything and everyone can lead to burnout, stress, and resentment.
A few years back, I found myself constantly overwhelmed and exhausted. I was juggling multiple responsibilities at work, at home, in my social circles, and saying yes to every request that came my way. I thought I was being helpful and efficient, but in reality, I was stretching myself too thin.
It wasn’t until I started setting boundaries that things began to change. I learned to say “no” when necessary, to prioritize my tasks, and to make time for self-care. This wasn’t easy at first, but it was a crucial step in becoming stronger and more resilient.
So remember, it’s okay to set boundaries. It’s okay to prioritize your well-being. Because sometimes, saying “no” is the strongest thing you can do.
7) Keep learning and growing
People who stay strong during tough times understand that every challenge is an opportunity for growth. They are committed to continuous learning, always seeking to better themselves.
They read books, attend seminars, seek advice, and are open to new experiences. They aren’t afraid to step out of their comfort zone if it means gaining new skills or knowledge.
They understand that life is a journey, and that challenges are just part of the landscape. Each obstacle is a chance to learn, adapt, and become a little bit stronger than before.
So remember, never stop learning. Embrace every challenge as an opportunity for growth. Because every step forward, no matter how small, is a step towards becoming stronger.
8) Remember their why
Above all, people who stay strong during tough times never lose sight of their “why”.
This is their core reason for persevering, their driving force. It’s what gives them the strength to keep going when things get tough. It could be their passion, their loved ones, their dreams, or even a cause they deeply believe in.
This “why” is like a beacon, guiding them through the darkest times. It’s a constant reminder of what they’re fighting for. And it’s this sense of purpose that fuels their resilience and keeps them pushing forward, no matter what life throws at them.
Final thoughts: It’s a journey
The journey of staying strong during tough times is deeply personal and unique to each individual.
While these habits can provide a roadmap, it’s important to remember that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Everyone’s resilience is shaped by their experiences, beliefs, and values.
However, at the core of it all is a profound human capacity for resilience. As psychologist and Holocaust survivor Viktor Frankl once said, “When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.”
These habits are not quick fixes but gradual transformations. They remind us that strength isn’t about being invincible, but about learning how to navigate through life’s storms with grace and tenacity.
So as you embark on your journey towards becoming stronger, remember to be kind to yourself. Remember that it’s okay not to be okay sometimes. And most importantly, remember that every step you take, no matter how small, is a testament to your strength and resilience.