Steps to Mental Fitness

How’s your mental fitness? Just like building muscles by exercising, you can build mental fitness by looking at things in new ways. At Preferred Care, we know that feeling good about yourself is important part of living well. Mental fitness takes practice – here’s your training guide:

1. Accept Yourself.

Learn to understand and accept your preferences, passions and needs. Remember: No one knows you like you do. Spend quiet time writing in a journal. Talk to a friend about what matters most to you. Don’t blame others for your problems. If your life is boring—or if you feel put upon or neglected—admit it, and do something about it.

2. Make Your Needs Known.

Express yourself and tell others about your feelings (but don’t attack them). Don’t expect other people to read your mind.

3. Show High Self-Esteem.

Relate to yourself and others in ways that reveal that you care for yourself. Use positive body language and project a positive attitude. Look alert and interested and keep a cheerful smile. Practice good grooming habits and dress appropriately for the occasion.

4. Develop Your Potential.

Make full use of your abilities and think about what interests you. Try new things you have never done before. Biking, acting, chess – the possibilities are endless! Try to get enough sleep, exercise, and eat healthy foods – all of these will help give you energy for any activity.

5. Let Go of the Negative.

Instead of judging others, learn to appreciate their unique strengths.

6. Plan for Success.

Learn to value your own strengths. Take disappointments in stride. Everyone experiences failure at times. The most successful people learn from their disappointments rather than letting themselves to be defeated by them.

7. Think Positively.

Embrace your good qualities, and look ahead to a positive future. Believe that you have the power and ability to turn negative situations into positive ones.

8. Find Ways to Help Others.

Sometimes it’s good to focus some of your attention away from the things that bug you every day and toward the needs of others. Try volunteering for a community project, work with animals or other kids.

Visit our Health Encyclopedia for “8 Parenting Strategies for Raising Successful Teens”

Sources: National Mental Health Association, Parlay International
Posted: June 2004