How would you rate your mental strength right now?

You can be physically strong, but what about mentally?

I'm sharing excerpts from a book called "13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do," by Amy Morin. Her writing really spoke to me this week. I hope it will encourage you too.

Being mentally strong isn't about acting tough. 

You don't have to become a robot or appear to have a tough exterior, when you're mentally strong. Instead, it's about acting according to your values

Mental strength doesn't require you to ignore your emotions. 

Increasing your mental strength isn't about suppressing your emotions; instead, it's about developing a keen awareness of them. It's about interpreting and understanding how your emotions influence your thoughts and behavior. 

Being mentally strong doesn't mean you have to be completely self-reliant. 

Mental strength isn't about proclaiming that you don't ever need help from anyone, or from any type of higher power. Admitting you don't have all the answers, asking for help when you need it and acknowledging that you can gain strength from a higher power is a sign of a desire to grow stronger.

Being mentally strong is not about positive thinking. 

Thinking overly positive thoughts can be just as detrimental as thinking overly negative thoughts. Mental strength is about thinking realistically and rationally. 

Developing mental strength isn't about chasing happiness. 

Being mentally strong will help you to be more content in life, but it isn't about waking up every day and trying to force yourself to feel happy. Instead, it's about making the decision that will help you reach your full potential.

Mentally Strong Don't Compare Themselves With Other People

Whether you're looking at Instagram photos of a celebrity's vacation, or you're hearing your friend talk about her latest raise, comparing yourself with others is tempting. But every minute you spend comparing your life with someone else's life is 60 seconds you aren't focusing on your goals.

How would you rate your mental strength right now? What do you do to stay mentally strong?