Building Mental Strength
Sometimes deep down, we’re aware that the choice we’re about to make isn’t the best one. Rather than changing the course of a situation, we give ourselves excuses to justify what we are about to do. Instead of stopping ourselves from heading down the wrong path—or admitting we made a mistake—we get defensive and attempt to rationalize our behavior. Ultimately, we dig ourselves deeper. Every one of us behaves impulsively, gives in to immediate gratification, or overlooks risk sometimes. When we do, here are 5 statements we use to justify our poor choices:
1. “I Deserve to be Happy”: Of course you deserve the right to pursue a happy, healthy lifestyle, this statement often gets thrown around by those about to sabotage their long-term happiness.When you find yourself demanding that you deserve happiness, make sure you aren’t chasing short lived feelings of happiness. It’s important to keep your goals and values in mind to prevent yourself from exchanging momentary pleasure for long-term satisfaction.
2. "I'd rather beg for forgiveness than ask for permission.": Before you move forward, thoughtfully consider the potential consequences of your behavior, including how it could damage a relationship. If you believe in something strongly enough, move forward with the confidence that there will be no need to fake an apology at a later date.
3. "You only live once.": A rich and fulfilling life requires balance between risk and long-term rewards. Calculate risk and take time to consider how this type of thinking could derail you over the long-term.
4. "I'm just being honest.": Before delivering criticism or negative feedback, be mindful of your desire to be direct with the other person’s right to be treated with respect. Whether you are masking your insecurity by putting someone else down, or lashing out in anger, your disrespectful demeanor speaks more about your character than your claims of “just being honest.”
5. "I don't care what anybody thinks.": If people express concerns about your decision-making, be willing to listen. Set aside your defenses and take a moment to hear about potential pitfalls or risks you may be overlooking.
Mentally strong people look for explanations without making excuses. They accept full responsibility for their thoughts, feelings and behavior. We have the ability to build mental strength. With hard work, we can improve our ability to manage our thoughts, regulate our emotions, and behave productively despite our circumstances. The stronger we become, the less we’ll use excuses to justify our bad choices.
Today let’s focus on building mental strength. With hard work, we can improve our ability to manage our thoughts, regulate our emotions, and behave productively despite our circumstances. The stronger we become, the less likely we will use excuses to justify our bad choices. 🧠🌱