Some people have an inner code—a set of rules they live by that allows them to navigate life’s challenges with grace and resilience.
And sometimes, it feels like they know something we don’t. Like they have some secret manual for life that the rest of us missed out on.
If you’re one of those people who feels like they’re missing out on this secret manual, trust me: you’re not alone.
So, what if I told you that you too could learn their secret rules?
If it seems a bit daunting, don’t worry. I’m here to break it down for you simply!
So, without further ado, let’s delve into the rules that people with genuine inner strength usually live by.
1) Embrace discomfort
Here’s the first thing I’ve noticed about people with inner strength: they’re not afraid of discomfort.
Now, don’t get me wrong. They don’t actively seek out pain or hardship. But when it comes their way, they don’t shy away from it either.
I discovered this after an ordeal at work.
This was a time when I had to present a project to my boss. I was incredibly nervous and wanted to pass the responsibility to a colleague. But then, I realized that this was my chance to grow and to step outside my comfort zone.
So, I embraced the discomfort and did the presentation. And guess what? It went pretty well!
It was then that I realized that people with inner strength understand that growth often comes from discomfort. Much like a workout, it helps you build character, strength, and resilience.
2) Make your own path
The second rule people with genuine inner strength live by is making their own path.
They don’t let societal norms or expectations dictate their choices; they follow their own instincts and values instead.
Take my friend, for example.
She had a well-paying job in finance but always dreamed of opening her own bakery. Most people told her she was crazy to give up a stable job for something uncertain. But she knew she wouldn’t be happy unless she tried.
Today, she runs a successful bakery and couldn’t be happier.
Let her story teach you that to have genuine inner strength is to listen to your inner voice and make your own path, regardless of what others might think or say.
3) Practice gratitude
People with genuine inner strength have a habit of practicing gratitude. They understand the power of appreciation and how it can shift our focus from what’s wrong to what’s right.
In fact, this article by Harvard Health Publishing discusses how practicing gratitude can improve mental health, increase resilience, and even enhance sleep quality.
So, despite the challenges we face, we should always find a moment to appreciate what we have. This shift in mindset allows us to remain positive and grounded, even in the toughest of situations.
4) Kindness is a strength
The importance of kindness is something that shouldn’t be underestimated—and people with genuine inner strength certainly don’t.
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They don’t see kindness as a weakness but a testament to their strength, which is why, to them, being kind doesn’t mean allowing others to walk all over them.
Instead, being kind means choosing to respond with compassion and understanding, even when faced with adversity.
There’s no greater example of this than a teacher I once knew.
Despite dealing with difficult students and facing criticism from parents, she always responded with kindness. She believed that every student was capable of change and growth, and her kindness often brought out the best in them.
Her strength of character was truly inspiring, and she’s one of the good influences in my life that shaped me into the person I am now—someone who never forgets to practice kindness whenever they can.
5) Understand the power of patience
Another rule that people with genuine inner strength live by is understanding the power of patience. They know that good things take time, and rushing can often lead to mistakes.
I’ve experienced this firsthand in my own career as a writer.
When I first started writing, I would get impatient if my work wasn’t perfect right away. But over time, I realized that it’s through patience and consistent effort that my writing improved.
Now, I appreciate the process as much as the end result. I’ve learned to appreciate the process and understand that being patient can often lead to better results.
This shift in mindset is what made a tremendous difference in my personal and professional life, ultimately changing it for the better.
6) Practice self-care
Genuinely strong people know the importance of taking care of themselves. They value their physical, mental, and emotional health and understand that self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.
They make time for activities that are good for their health and well-being, such as:
- Reading a book
- Going for a run
- Spending time in nature
- Eating healthy food
- Getting enough sleep
- Meditating
- Going to therapy
They do all of these because they know that self-care is not about being selfish. It’s about taking care of yourself to be able to give the best of yourself to others.
7) Accept change
People with genuine inner strength are not afraid of change. They understand that change is a part of life and that resisting it only leads to stress and disappointment.
While many people fear the unknown, those with inner strength see it as an opportunity for growth and learning. They adapt to new circumstances and embrace the possibilities that change brings.
8) Believe in yourself
The last rule people with genuine inner strength live by is believing in themself. They trust their abilities and instincts, even when others doubt them.
They know that believing in yourself isn’t being arrogant or overconfident.
It’s understanding your strengths, accepting your weaknesses, and knowing that you have the potential to overcome challenges that come your way.
Final thoughts
Inner strength comes from within, not from external influence or validation from others.
And only those who possess this trait have the potential and ability to shape their own destiny.
By incorporating these principles into our own lives, we too can develop inner strength and navigate life’s challenges with resilience and grace.
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