Tough Times Create Tough People
They say that you would not know the real meaning of living unless you experience hardships and adversities. Growing up, you are taught that life is not always a bed of roses. You need to be brave. You need to have the strength and courage to overcome obstacles that will come your way. It is only through these that you will emerge better and tougher.
If this is the case, why do people get depressed and anxious whenever problems arise? Do tough times really make tough people or do they turn them into vulnerable, fragile individuals? Why do they feel weak and hopeless when they lose their jobs or break up with someone? Why do they choose to end their lives to escape their debts and trauma? As a matter of fact, suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the United States.
What does it mean to be a tough person?
We all have this idea that a tough person is someone who is not easily hurt and does not show signs of weakness. Tough people endure the pain and heartaches to have a better and more comfortable life. Some of us believe that those who have not experienced problems are immature and sensitive. They give up right away and break down when everything gets messy. This is not always true.
Tough people are mentally strong. There may be times when you feel hopeless and weak but you stand back up to continue living. Bad situations happen and it is up to you if you will allow these situations to dictate your life. It is having a positive mindset that helps you survive.
Problems, challenges and obstacles in life do not make you strong or weak. It is how you respond and deal with them that defines your strength. You may have a perfect life but you will still face certain struggles. Life is unpredictable and you cannot control everything about it. It is not in your hands when your company decides to let you go. It is not up to you when your parents want a divorce.
It is okay to feel sad, angry, or scared. It is best if you cry out your disappointments and worries. You do not have to feel ashamed when you choose to go to therapy counseling. Keeping yourself together and refusing to admit defeat are what make you a tough person.
How do problems make you tough?
Whatever problems you have now, remember that you will always come out stronger and smarter. They can be overwhelming and giving up seems to be the easiest route. The road may be difficult, and the process may be painful but you will emerge as a victor all the time.
You learn to be grateful.
Problems are part of life. They are non-negotiable. You are more appreciative and grateful for what you have now because you know the feeling of having nothing. Relationships are valuable to you because you grow up with no family or anyone to rely on. Most times, it is never easy to be alone or to think that you have no one. You may not have close friends but if you need someone, you may consider going to therapy counseling.
Problems make you empathetic.
Tough people are kind and empathetic. They help others who are in need because they, too, have experienced a similar situation. They are willing to lend a hand and teach you that problems will pass. They come and go but what is important is how you act and respond to every challenge.
Problems teach you to be resilient.
According to the American Psychological Association, “resilience is the process and outcome of successfully adapting to difficult or challenging life experiences, especially through mental, emotional, and behavioral flexibility and adjustment to external and internal demands.” It is your ability to adapt to changes around you, cope with stress and other negative emotions, and keep moving forward.
You learn to always have a plan.
Sometimes, you look at your problems as a hindrance to your growth and success. But when you look at the brighter side, your daily struggles help you become a more organized person. You learn that it is always better to have a plan to avoid problems. When you want to pay off your student loan as early as possible, you work harder. If you want to get to your office on time, you wake up early to avoid traffic. When you want to live a long life, you live a healthy lifestyle.
Problems help develop a positive mindset.
When there is a problem, you only have two options – you face them head-on or allow them to break you. Facing them is the best and most desirable thing to do. Having a positive mindset helps you deal with whatever situations you have. It becomes easier for you to handle anything because you know that all will go well.
People who are struggling with depression and anxiety because of their problems need understanding and support. They are not weak but they are people who badly need help. They need guidance because their minds are clouded with unpleasant thoughts and negative energy. Getting therapy counseling is an effective way to deal with this.
Mindshift Psychological Services will help you deal with your depression and anxiety. Our therapy and counseling sessions provide the most effective approaches and programs that will develop your optimism and resilience.
Visit our website to learn more about us. You may also contact us at (714)584-9700.
