#3 Mentally Strong People Don't Shy Away from Change

The book 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do by Amy Morin argues that mental strength is a skill you can develop to cope with life's challenges and reach your full potential. It identifies 13 behaviors that can hinder mental strength and offers strategies to overcome them. Here is the third one:

#3. They Don’t Shy Away from Change

Mentally strong people understand that change is an inevitable part of growth and development.

They recognize that while change can be intimidating and fraught with uncertainty, it is also an opportunity to improve, learn, and evolve. Shying away from change means remaining stagnant, missing out on potential advancements, and staying mired in complacency. Mentally strong individuals are prepared to face the discomfort and challenges that come with change, using them as stepping stones to build resilience and achieve their goals. They approach change with a strategic plan, breaking down large goals into manageable steps, and remain flexible in their methods, adapting as necessary. This proactive attitude towards change ensures that they are not left behind as the world moves forward.

Think about it this way...

Change is like the metamorphosis of a caterpillar into a butterfly.

Initially, the caterpillar might resist the confinement of the cocoon, fearing the transformation. However, embracing this change is essential for its evolution into something beautiful and capable of soaring heights.

Similarly, mentally strong individuals embrace change as an essential phase of personal growth, leading to new opportunities and perspectives.

Are you more like Richard or Alex?

From Resistance to Resilience: A Tale of Two Transitions

In the dynamic city of Newbrook, two friends, Richard and Alex, faced personal challenges that demanded change.

Richard, after his diabetes diagnosis, knew he needed a lifestyle overhaul but struggled with the magnitude of change. He initially attempted drastic changes, like cutting out all junk food and committing to an aggressive gym routine. However, this approach led to quick burnout and frustration, leaving him feeling defeated and stuck in his old habits.

Alex, in contrast, also recognized the need for change in her life. She decided to pursue a new career path, which required learning new skills and leaving her comfort zone. Instead of diving headfirst, Alex broke down her goal into smaller, achievable steps. She started with online courses in her field of interest, gradually building her knowledge and confidence. Alex's incremental approach to change was not only manageable but also rewarding, as each small victory fueled her motivation.

Over time, Richard noticed Alex's progress and was inspired by her approach. He reconsidered his strategy, opting for smaller, more realistic goals like improving his diet gradually and incorporating regular, moderate exercise into his routine. This shift in approach made the process of change less daunting and more sustainable for Richard.

13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't

AMAZON: Audiobook (6 hours, 36 minutes) and book available:

BLINKIST: 40 minute in-depth book summary available:

Great Related Book: Mindset

The book Mindset by Carol S. Dweck explores the concept of mindset and its impact on various aspects of life. The book argues that there are two main mindsets: fixed and growth.

• Fixed mindset: People with a fixed mindset believe their intelligence and talents are fixed traits. They view challenges as threats and failures as proof of their inadequacy.
• Growth mindset: People with a growth mindset believe their intelligence and talents can be developed through effort and learning. They see challenges as opportunities to learn and grow, and failures as stepping stones on the path to success.

Tip: When interviewing people for positions, interview to determine if they have a Growth versus Fixed Mindset. Then hire those with the strongest Growth Mindset that meet, or exceed, position requirements. This is what I do.

Mindset highlights the following key points:

• Mindset shapes how you approach challenges and setbacks: Those with a fixed mindset tend to give up easily, while those with a growth mindset persevere.
• Mindset can be learned: People can develop a growth mindset through practice and encouragement.
• Growth mindset benefits various aspects of life: It can lead to better academic performance, stronger relationships, and greater success in careers.

Mindset also provides examples of how mindsets play out in different situations, including:

• Education: Students with a growth mindset are more likely to thrive in challenging classes and learn from mistakes.
• Business: Companies with leaders who have a growth mindset are more likely to be successful.
• Relationships: People with a growth mindset are better at navigating challenges in their relationships.

The book offers practical tips for developing a growth mindset, such as:

• Praising effort over intelligence: This encourages a growth mindset by focusing on the process of learning.
• Embracing challenges: View challenges as opportunities to learn and grow.
• Learning from mistakes: Don't see failures as setbacks, but as stepping stones on the path to success.

By adopting a growth mindset, you can develop a more positive and resilient outlook on life, and achieve your full potential.

AMAZON: Audiobook (10 hours, 23 minutes) and book available.

BLINKIST: 15 minute in-depth book summary available

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