Inner strength - How do we strengthen the part of our lives that we can not physically see?
Whilst our physical strength is certainly important, we often find that our inner strength is often neglected.
We all aim to be strong, confident, full of contentment and happy. Yet at times no matter how hard we try to achieve this goal, this can be overwhelming and challenging.
During my clinical work, I often meet clients who want to build skills and improve their inner strength and their resilience level. So what can we do to strengthen the part of our lives that we can not physically see?
The good news is that inner strength is achievable. Similar to our physical strength, this requires determination and our input.
Here are five simple steps you can take to support and enhance your inner growth.
1) Strengthen your mind muscle with daily meditation!
Think of meditation as a “workout” for your brain!
Often we allow our mind to fall into addictive and unhealthy thought patterns. Sometimes we are not “consciously” aware. Meditation presents an opportunity for us to be open to form and create healthy new patterns.
Again just like the gym, start small and begin where you are. Workout a portion of your day that is manageable and sustainable for you. Imagine this as your mental “reps” to build your strength! Even as little as 10 minutes of meditation a day removes the mental clutter that depletes your energy. It restores focus and clarity. This will help you to become more clearer and more decisive.
2) Mental flexibility
Find flexibility in your ability to go with the flow. When we are strong mentally, we have trust and faith in the natural unfolding of life.
While it’s important to have goals and a structure or plans, it’s equally important to be open to the infinite possibilities of the universe and what this delivers!
Mental flexibility comes from the awareness attained through meditation. By practicing meditation, you begin to “witness your thoughts”. The more you practice, the more you will learn that you have the ability to choose the thoughts that you want to occupy space in your mind. You become mindful and conscious of what is stored internally. With this training and practice, you become aware that you can choose to be non-attached to life’s disappointments, stresses and challenges even when they appear spontaneously in our lives.
3) Know your limits
Discover more about yourself. Learn about your standards and morals and what is absolutely non-negotiable. When you are clear and working through this, set healthy boundaries which is necessary to keep what you value safe.
4) Learn to be consistent
Just like in the physical realm, where you have to practice to see results, the same principle applies here.
For instance, you would not do 100 sit-up’s in one day for the whole month and expect a six-pack! To experience the benefits, you actually have invest the time and energy. This does not mean that this has to perfect, or an unmanageable amount of time for your schedule. It just means that the intention should be there to do something productive and meaningful.
5) Be open to accepting that setbacks will only make you stronger
Sometimes we get down on ourselves for skipping workouts or eating unhealthy foods. The same principle applies for our inner work.
Don’t judge yourself when you slip up on your practice, or when you’re not present, or when life seems really difficult. Instead rely on the foundation that you have built. There is always something to learn from every situation.
If you don’t get the results you were looking for on the first occasion, next time you can choose again. It’s in these life circumstances where you find true power and strength. Think of this as a learning curve, to guide you should you encounter a similar experience in future. Key here is to be adaptable and submissive to change.
Enjoy the journey!