Mental strength requires a counterintuitive approach. When you embrace seemingly contradictory actions, you can foster greater resilience and mental strength. But you must go against society's typical beliefs (and perhaps your own ideas about strength) to make it happen. Building mental strength isn't about eliminating problems. Instead, it's about overcoming challenges. Some of the things I share are: The power of quitting The balance between optimism and realism Why vulnerability is essential to strength Strategies for regaining peace 10 science-backed counterintuitive approaches to becoming mentally stronger Offers From Our Sponsors GhostBed — Join the 60,000 happy customers that have found their perfect mattress with GhostBed. Check out GhostBed.com/stronger and use code STRONGER at checkout for 50% off your order today. BetterHelp — Go to BetterHelp.com/MENTALLYSTRONG today to get 10% off your first month of therapy. AquaTru — Receive 20% OFF any AquaTru water purifier when you go to AquaTru.com and use promo code STRONGER at checkout! ButcherBox — Go to Butcherbox.com/stronger and use code stronger at checkout and enjoy your choice of bone-in chicken thighs, top sirloins, or salmon in every box for an entire year, plus $30 off your first order! Jenni Kayne — Find your forever pieces @jennikayne and get 15% off with promo code STRONGER15 at Jennikayne.com/STRONGER15 #jennikaynepartner Subscribe to Mentally Stronger Premium — Get weekly bonus episodes, monthly bonus content, and cool gifts (like signed books)! Connect with the Show Buy Amy's books on mental strength Connect with Amy on Instagram — @AmyMorinAuthor Email the show — Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com Order 13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don't Do Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you feel cynical these days? Research shows our negative feelings about one another are on the rise. However, studies also indicate that people are actually more trustworthy, honest, and less greedy than they used to be. Dr. Jamil Zaki says that if you're feeling cynical, there are strategies that can help you develop a more positive outlook on others. He's a psychologist and professor of Psychology at Stanford University, an expert in social connections, kindness, and human behavior, and the author of a new book called Hope for Cynics. Some of the things we discuss are: Why cynicism has been on the rise since the 1970s The negative impact cynicism has on our well-being and on society How Dr. Zaki managed his cynicism during the pandemic What it means to be cynical and why it happens What the research says about cynicism Strategies for developing a more positive view of others (even if you are skeptical) Links & Resources Hope for Cynics jamil-zaki.com X — @Zakijam Dr. Zaki's TED talk — Escape the Cynicism Trap Offers From Our Sponsors BetterHelp — Go to BetterHelp.com/MENTALLYSTRONG today to get 10% off your first month of therapy. AirDoctor — Head to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code STRONGER to receive UP TO $300 off air purifiers! ButcherBox — Go to Butcherbox.com/stronger and use code stronger at checkout and enjoy your choice of bone-in chicken thighs, top sirloins, or salmon in every box for an entire year, plus $30 off! Jenni Kayne — Find your forever pieces @jennikayne and get 15% off with promo code STRONGER15 at Jennikayne.com/STRONGER15 #jennikaynepartner Aqua Tru — Receive 20% OFF any AquaTru water purifier when you go to AquaTru.com and use promo code STRONGER at checkout! Subscribe to Mentally Stronger Premium — Get weekly bonus episodes, monthly bonus content, and cool gifts (like signed books)! Connect with the Show Buy Amy's books on mental strength Connect with Amy on Instagram — @AmyMorinAuthor Email the show — Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com Order 13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don't Do Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This single but profound question can create significant improvements in your life. Your answer, which will only take a minute to develop, will help you clarify your ideal future and give you the steps that will help you achieve it. Solution-focused therapists ask this question to help people start living the kind of life that they really want to live. The good news is you don't have to wait until a therapist asks you this question. You can answer it today. By the time you're done with this episode, you'll know what steps to start taking. Offers From Our Sponsors BetterHelp — Go to BetterHelp.com/MENTALLYSTRONG today to get 10% off your first month of therapy. AirDoctor — Head to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code STRONGER to receive UP TO $300 off air purifiers plus a free 3 year warranty. ZocDoc — Find a doctor or therapist today by downloading the app for free at ZocDoc.com/stronger ButcherBox — Go to Butcherbox.com/stronger and use code stronger at checkout and enjoy your choice of bone-in chicken thighs, top sirloins, or salmon in every box for an entire year, plus $30 off your first order! Jenni Kayne — Find your forever pieces @jennikayne and get 15% off with promo code STRONGER15 at Jennikayne.com/STRONGER15 #jennikaynepartner Subscribe to Mentally Stronger Premium — Get weekly bonus episodes, monthly bonus content, and cool gifts (like signed books)! Connect with the Show Buy Amy's books on mental strength Connect with Amy on Instagram — @AmyMorinAuthor Email the show — Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com Order 13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don't Do Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We live in a world that creates anxiety. The pursuit of the American dream can lead to lives that our bodies cannot handle. From constant phone notifications to around-the-clock news stories, the stress of daily life can take a toll on your brain and your body. But best-selling author Dr. John Delony says we don't have to live in a constant state of anxiety. Some of the things he talks about are how to take control of our lives, how to prioritize our well-being in today's world, and strategies for creating a low-anxiety lifestyle. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get bonus episodes, and get exclusive content delivered to your feed every week. Links & Resources Check out Building a Non-Anxious Life Listen to The Dr. John Delony Show Connect with the Show Buy Amy's books on mental strength Connect with Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Email the show - Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com Sponsors This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/mentallystrong, and get 10% off your first month. Head to reliefband.com and use promo code MENTALLYSTRONGER for 20% off plus free shipping. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Visualization is a powerful tool for success, but only if you use it correctly. Many people make the mistake of visualizing themselves celebrating a victory or enjoying a reward because they think it will motivate them. However, research shows imagining a successful outcome actually decreases the chances that you'll achieve your goals. Fortunately, there are ways to use visualization to enhance your performance, improve your motivation, and increase your chances of success. Some of the things I share are why vision boards don't work, how to use visualization to increase your motivation, and the one research-backed visualization strategy that helps students, athletes, and musicians reach their goals. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get bonus episodes, and get exclusive content delivered to your feed every week. Connect with Me Email the show - Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com Check out my books on mental strength Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Sponsor This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/mentallystrong and get 10% off your first month Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most of us go to great lengths to avoid uncomfortable emotions like anxiety or fear. But when we learn to question our fears and understand their origins, we can learn to use them to our advantage. On today's episode, we discuss facing fears head-on with a specific focus on how to cope with the fear of missing out. Farnoosh Torabi is a financial expert, best-selling author, and host of the popular podcast So Money. With over 20 years of experience in the financial industry, she has become known as the "money lady." Farnoosh's latest book, The Healthy State of Panic," explores the power of fear and how it can be harnessed to achieve success. Some of the things she shares are: How fear is often the underlying emotion behind our financial decisions. How power can be used for positive purposes, such as uplifting and supporting others. FOMO can be a sign that we are craving a certain feeling, not necessarily the thing everyone else is doing. How to define your own version of success and focus on what brings you joy and fulfillment. Why setting boundaries and saying no can lead to a happier and more fulfilling life. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get bonus episodes, and get exclusive content delivered to your feed every week. Links & Resources Buy Farnoosh's book - A Healthy State of Panic Listen to her podcast - So Money Visit her website - Farnoosh.TV Connect with the Show Email the show - Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com Check out my books on mental strength Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Sponsor This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/mentallystrong, and get 10% off your first month. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are a lot of misconceptions about therapy, mental health, and what to expect from treatment. Whether you're considering treatment or you know someone who could benefit from therapy, treatment won't feel as stressful when you understand how therapy works. Today, I'm clearing up some of these misconceptions and sharing what I wish everyone knew about therapy. Some of the things I talk about are the common reasons people seek therapy, what to talk about, and the number one factor that determines whether therapy works for you. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get bonus episodes, and get exclusive content delivered to your feed every week. Connect with Me Email the show - Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com Check out my books on mental strength Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Sponsor This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/mentallystrong and get 10% off your first month Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Minimalism can help you grow mentally stronger. When you clear the clutter, you make room for things that really matter in life. But it's not just physical clutter. Financial clutter, calendar clutter, and relationship clutter can also stand between you and your best life. Knowing what to get rid of and how to simply your life can feel like an uphill battle. Joshua Fields Millburn explains how to make room for what truly matters in life. He's a writer, speaker, and filmmaker known for his work on minimalism. He is one of the founders of The Minimalists, a website and podcast dedicated to helping people live more meaningful lives with less stuff. He's a New York Times Best-Selling author of several books, including Minimalism: Live a Meaningful Life and Everything That Remains. He has also produced two documentaries, Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things and Less Is Now, both of which are available on Netflix. He shares his personal journey with minimalism, from living the American dream with a big house and lots of possessions to realizing that those things didn't bring him happiness or fulfillment. Some of the things he talks about are how to quickly decide whether to keep something, the impact clearing clutter can have on your mental health, and practical strategies for working through the emotional attachment to sentimental items. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get bonus episodes, and get exclusive content delivered to your feed every week. Links & Resources The Minimalists Listen to The Minimalists podcast Sponsor This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/mentallystrong, and get 10% off your first month. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Life gets easier when you grow mentally stronger. Not only can mental strength help heal your emotional wounds, but it can also help you reach your greatest potential. But there are a lot of misconceptions about what mental strength is and how to build it. Some of the things I share today are the three parts to mental strength, the tools that can help you grow stronger, and how to give up the counterproductive bad habits that keep you stuck. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get bonus episodes, and get exclusive content delivered to your feed every week. Email the show - Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com Check out my books on mental strength Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Pre-order 13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don't Do, and get a free month of therapy at BetterHelp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Working on your mental health is never convenient. But you may be forced to deal with a mental health crisis at the worst time if you don't practice self-care. Fortunately, there are small steps you can take to manage your mental health daily that can make a big difference to your overall well-being. And according to Hunter Hayes, 5-time GRAMMY-nominated singer/songwriter, you're never too busy to prioritize your mental health. Hunter rose to fame in 2011 when he became the youngest male act to hit the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart for his song "Wanted." Despite his busy touring and recording schedule, he still prioritizes self-care and mental health. But he makes it clear that it's an ongoing process for him. Some of the things he talks about today are the tools he uses to manage his mental health, his strategies to cope with loneliness, and what he's learning about in therapy. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get bonus episodes, and get exclusive content delivered to your feed every week. About Hunter To learn more about Hunter check out his website - HunterHayes.com Sponsor Go to HelloFresh.com/50stronger and use code 50stronger for 50% off plus 15% off the next 2 months About Amy and the Show Email the show - Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com Check out my books on mental strength Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Pre-order 13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don't Do, and get a free month of therapy at BetterHelp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's tough to switch your focus from things you can't control to things you can. But when you learn how to do it, you improve your life in so many ways. Some of the things I share today are how to identify what is within your control, what to do when your brain is worrying about things you have zero control over, and how to plan for worst-case scenarios in a healthy way. These strategies can reduce your stress and increase your ability to manage the things you can control. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Email the show - Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com Check out my books on mental strength Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Pre-order 13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don't Do, and get a free month of therapy at BetterHelp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Change is tough. Whether you're trying to change a habit or you're trying to adapt to a changing workplace, you might waste a lot of energy resisting change. Best-selling author Brad Stulberg says we can learn to navigate life's challenges. And when we do, we're able to thrive in the face of change. Some of the things he discusses are how discomfort can lead to growth, how to change your mindset surrounding change, and a simple strategy for gaining clarity during times of uncertainty. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Check out Brad's book - Master of Change Visit Brad's website - BradStulberg.com Sponsor Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/mentallystronger About Amy Email the show - Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com Check out my books on mental strength Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Pre-order 13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don't Do, and get a free month of therapy at BetterHelp! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Changing careers takes mental strength. From unsupportive friends and family to the risks associated with starting over, it's tough to transition from one career to another. But, doing so can also be a great opportunity for growth and it might be the key to living a more fulfilling life. Some of the things I share are how to manage the stress related to an involuntary career change, what to do when other people don't support your career transition, and how to deal with the anxiety of making a job shift. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Email the show - Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com Check out my books on mental strength Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Pre-order 13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don't Do and get a free month of therapy at BetterHelp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You've heard people say you should step outside your comfort zone. But you may have underestimated just how important that is. Staying too comfortable might actually be killing you. The fear of discomfort might cause you to eat too much because you don't want to feel hungry. Or you might stop exercising the minute you start to feel uncomfortable. And, of course, you might do hard things because you fear you can't tolerate the discomfort. While eating healthy, exercising, and exposing yourself to healthy stress feel uncomfortable, the alternative is worse. Being unfit and unhealthy is even more uncomfortable in the long term. Paul Taylor is an exercise physiologist, nutritionist, and neuroscientist. He's also the author of Death By Comfort. Some of the things we talk about today are: How comfort could kill you The healthy stressors you should be purposely exposing yourself to The benefits of cold water and heat The one nutrition rule that everyone should follow The amount of exercise that will help you stay healthy The strategies that can help you start embracing discomfort today Links & Resources PaulTaylor.biz Death By Comfort The Paul Taylor Podcast Offers From Our Sponsors BetterHelp — Go to BetterHelp.com/MENTALLYSTRONG today to get 10% off your first month of therapy. AirDoctor — Head to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code STRONGER to receive UP TO $300 off air purifiers plus a free 3 year warranty. ZocDoc — Find a doctor or therapist today by downloading the app for free at ZocDoc.com/stronger ButcherBox — Go to Butcherbox.com/stronger and use code stronger at checkout and enjoy your choice of bone-in chicken thighs, top sirloins, or salmon in every box for an entire year, plus $20 off! Jenni Kayne — Find your forever pieces @jennikayne and get 15% off with promo code STRONGER15 at Jennikayne.com/STRONGER15 #jennikaynepartner Subscribe to Mentally Stronger Premium — Get weekly bonus episodes, monthly bonus content, and cool gifts (like signed books)! Connect with the Show Buy Amy's books on mental strength Connect with Amy on Instagram — @AmyMorinAuthor Email the show — Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com Order 13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don't Do Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Perfectionism takes a serious toll on your mental health and well-being. It's often driven by the fear of not being good enough and involves a desire to get validation from others. It often leads to anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Fortunately, there are some things that can help you give up the need to appear perfect. Thomas Curran, a psychology professor and the author of The Perfection Trap, shares how addressing perfectionism can improve your mental health and lead to a happier life. Some of the things he talks about are: The link between perfectionism and increased risk of mental health issues. Why perfectionists tend to feel lonely. Why perfectionism is a spectrum. Why perfectionism can lead to self-sabotage and an inability to derive satisfaction from success. How social media can contribute to perfectionism. Why overcoming perfectionism requires a shift in mindset. How embracing imperfections and being willing to make mistakes can lead to personal growth and success. How letting go of perfectionism can actually improve performance and creativity. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Pick up a copy of The Perfection Trap Thomas' website - https://www.thomascurran.co.uk/ Email the show - Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com Check out my books on mental strength Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Pre-order 13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don't Do and get a free month of therapy at BetterHelp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our beliefs influence our thoughts, emotions, and actions. However, many of our core beliefs are inaccurate and can limit our potential. Many of our beliefs stem from things we learned in childhood that aren't necessarily accurate. But those beliefs often turn into self-fulfilling prophecies. Fortunately, there are a few simple strategies that can help you uncover unhelpful core beliefs. Once you identify them, you can begin to challenge them. Some of the things I discuss: How self-limiting beliefs can hold us back and become self-fulfilling prophecies. What you can learn about your thought patterns by writing down what you think. The question you can ask yourself to reveal hidden core beliefs. How to challenge your self-limiting beliefs. How to give yourself a different perspective. How changing your beliefs can change your life. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Email the show = Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com Check out my books on mental strength Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Pre-order 13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don't Do and get a free month of therapy at BetterHelp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many kids feel like they aren't good enough because they're under constant pressure to achieve more. The toxic achievement mindset leaves them feeling worthless and causes them to lack resilience. Fortunately, journalist Jennifer Wallace has some solutions. After surveying thousands of parents, educators, and experts, she discovered how we can combat "toxic achievement culture" and teach kids resilience. Some of the things she shares are: Why it's important to normalize uncomfortable feelings like envy What drives the "never enough mindset" How the pressure to achieve is felt by parents The most crucial aspects of building resilience The biggest factor in building resilience that most parents lack How to help your child develop intrinsic goals How to help kids feel valued and why this is crucial to raising well-adjusted children who become healthy adults Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Check out Jennifer's website - JenniferBWallace.com Pick up a copy of Jennifer's book - Never Enough Contact the show - podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Pre-order Amy's book 13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don't Do, and get a month of therapy for free Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Your problem-solving skills can directly affect mental health. Research shows people who learn better problem-solving skills reduce anxiety, depression, and insomnia while also improving their relationships. Yet, most of us weren't taught a strategy for solving problems even though we face problems every single day. Fortunately, there's a formula you can use to solve problems and improve your problem-solving skills. Whether you're faced with financial problems, relationship issues, work-related stress, or family problems, this strategy can help you become more efficient and effective at solving the problems. Some of the things you'll learn: Problem-solving skills have a strong correlation to mental health and the health of relationships. Defining the problem is crucial before attempting to solve it. Everyone has the ability to get better at solving problems. You can learn to become more creative while also solving problems in less time. There's no evidence that thinking longer or harder about a problem is the key to reaching the best solution. The five-step process therapist use to help clients resolve any problem they're facing. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Email the show = Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com Check out my books on mental strength Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Pre-order 13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don't Do and get a free month of therapy at BetterHelp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Major mental illnesses, like bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and borderline personality disorder can make it hard to function. But Gabe Howard says it doesn't have to ruin your life. Gabe learned he had bipolar disorder when he was hospitalized in a mental health hospital at the age of 26. He thought his life was over. He has since learned that with the help of medication, therapy, and ongoing treatment, he can manage his symptoms. Gabe emphasizes the need for accurate representation in pop culture and challenges the stereotypes associated with mental illness. He also encourages open and honest conversations about mental health even if it means asking uncomfortable questions. Some of the things Gabe discusses: Why mental health issues are often misunderstood and stigmatized due to inaccurate portrayals in pop culture. The surprising ways language surrounding mental health should be carefully considered. Why the statistic of one in four people having a mental health condition can be misleading. How to navigate the mental health care system. How family members and friends can play a crucial role in supporting someone with a mental illness. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Visit Gabe's website - GabeHoward.com Listen to Gabe's podcast - Inside Bipolar Sponsored by: HelloFresh - Go to HelloFresh.com/50stronger, and use code 50stronger at checkout to get 50% off plus free shipping Check out Amy's website - https://AmyMorinLCSW.com/ Email the show - Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mental health advice is everywhere. But not all of it is good advice. In fact, some common tips about how to improve your emotional well-being that get widely shared on social media are downright unhealthy. Following those strategies might actually increase your depression, worsen your anxiety, increase your stress, or damage your psychological well-being. Fortunately, there are some simple but effective ways to improve your mental health. Today, I'm sharing 10 things you can do today to build mental strength right now. Some of the things I talk about are: How to reduce your stress by 60% in 6 minutes The best relaxation strategies The myths about gratitude And the truth about mental health days Stay tuned until the end of the episode for the question of the week where I help someone figure out how to find the best therapist. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Check out my book 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do Follow me on Instagram — @AmyMorinAuthor Visit my website — AmyMorinLCSW.com Email the show — podcast@amymorinlcsw.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The way you talk to yourself matters. You probably know it's important to talk to yourself with self-compassion and to try and reframe some of your negative thoughts. But what about the questions you ask yourself? You might be just one question away from a different life. Marc Champagne is a mental fitness strategist and the author of Personal Socrates. He's examined the questions successful people from Maya Angelou to Kobe Bryant ask themselves. Some of the things he discusses are the question that can make decisions easier, the one question you should ask yourself every day, and the question that could help you manage your feelings better. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Check out Marc's website — BehindTheHuman.com Check out Amy's website — AmyMorinLCSW.com Buy Amy's books Follow Amy on Instagram — @AmyMorinAuthor Email the show — Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We all procrastinate sometimes. But procrastination, by definition, has negative consequences. Sometimes those consequences are emotional — like dread and anxiety. At other times, consequences mean we don't perform well or miss out on great opportunities. While there are many reasons we procrastinate, the solutions are the same. These five science-backed strategies can get you moving toward your goal so you don't put off doing something any longer. Make sure to stick around until the end of the episode for the question of the week. This week's question is from a mother who worries she hasn't given her teenage daughter the skills she needs to be resilient. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Email Amy - Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Visit Amy's Website - AmyMorinLCSW.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's tough to know what emotional skills you should be teaching your kids these days. And you've probably heard that today's kids are struggling with their mental health more than ever. That's why I'm talking to Phyllis Fagell. She's a school counselor, licensed therapist, and author. Her new best-selling book, Middle School Superpowers, provides step-by-step strategies for teaching kids the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral strategies they need to thrive in today's world. Phyllis discusses the struggles that middle schoolers face today, including social media and increased anxiety. She emphasizes the importance of teaching kids how to be vulnerable, take healthy risks, and manage their emotions. Phyllis also provides practical strategies for parents to support their children's mental health and help them develop the skills they need to thrive. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Check out Middle School Superpowers Visit Phyllis' website - PhyllisFagell.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Intense emotions can cause you to become irrational and do things you wouldn't normally do. For example, anxiety will cause you to play it safe, and excitement will cause you to overestimate yourself. But it's tough to recognize how your emotions cause you to become irrational in the moment. Fortunately, you can take steps to balance out intense emotions to make better decisions. Here are four common ways emotions can screw up your decisions and the steps you can take to regain control over how you're feeling. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Ask Amy a question - Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com Check out Amy's books on mental strength Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You have about 60,000 thoughts every day. But many of those thoughts aren't helpful. Whether you put yourself down, rehash a conversation that happened in the past, or worry about something that could happen in the future, your thoughts affect how you feel and behave. While you can't control all the thoughts that pop into your head, you can control how you respond to them. In this episode, I share five ways to deal with negative thoughts. These strategies can improve your mental health and help you build mental strength. Some of the things I share are: The types of thoughts you can't control The factors that affect the way we think How to separate facts from opinions The five tools that you can use to deal with unhelpful thoughts How responding to your thoughts differently can change your life Offers From Our Sponsors BetterHelp — Go to BetterHelp.com/MENTALLYSTRONG today to get 10% off your first month of therapy. AirDoctor — Head to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code STRONGER to receive UP TO $300 off air purifiers! ButcherBox — Go to Butcherbox.com/stronger and use code stronger at checkout and enjoy your choice of bone-in chicken thighs, top sirloins, or salmon in every box for an entire year, plus $20 off! ZocDoc — Find a doctor or therapist today by downloading the app for free at ZocDoc.com/stronger Subscribe to Mentally Stronger Premium — Get weekly bonus episodes, monthly bonus content, and cool gifts (like signed books)! Connect with the Show Buy Amy's books on mental strength Connect with Amy on Instagram — @AmyMorinAuthor Email the show — Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com Order 13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don't Do Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Almost everyone knows someone who is battling a drug or alcohol problem. But most people have no idea what to do about it. Should you step in or step back? Support groups, like Al-Anon, encouraged people to detach from a loved one with a substance use disorder. But detachment doesn't help. Connection does. That's what Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT) is about. It's a set of skills family members learn and practice. Within 12 weeks, about 75% of loved ones with a drug or alcohol problem get into recovery. Laurie MacDougall is a CRAFT trainer who has a personal reason for helping families — her adult son battled drug addiction. Some of the things Laurie shares are the skills that can improve communication, the misconceptions about substance abuse, and the truth about how to increase the chances that a loved one will accept help. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Learn more about Allies in Recovery Listen to Laurie's Podcast- Coming Up for Air Check out the book Beyond Addiction Send Amy an email - Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you've ever felt frustrated by people who treat you poorly, you're not alone. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to empower yourself. But first, it's important to recognize why you allow yourself to be mistreated. You might be surprised by what the research says about the link between low self-esteem and mistreatment from others. Once you develop a better understanding of why mistreatment occurs in the first place, you can decide if you're ready to establish boundaries and prioritize self-respect. Make sure to listen to the end of the episode for the question of the week. And if you have a question you'd like answered by a therapist, email me at podcast@amymorinlcsw.com and I'll consider featuring it on a future Friday Fix episode. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Check out my books on mental strength Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anxiety is meant to keep you safe. It alerts you to danger and helps you respond to life-threatening situations. But most of us have some faulty anxiety alarm bells that go off when we're not in life-or-death situations. You already have some strategies that help you cope with anxiety, like scrolling through your phone. Short-term solutions, however, aren't addressing the underlying cause of your anxiety. And they won't heal your symptoms. According to Dr. Russell Kennedy, a physician and neuroscientist, there are some simple steps that uncover the root of your anxiety so you can heal your old emotional wounds. Some of the things he shares are how to recognize your anxiety alarms, identify the root cause of your pain, and heal from it once and for all. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Check out Dr. Kennedy's book - AnxietyRX Sponsored by - Go to HelloFresh.com/stronger50 to get 50% off plus free shipping Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether you're worried about what other people think of you or you worry a lot about all the bad things that could happen, worrying isn't good for you. It can take a serious toll on your health and your relationships. But knowing that worrying is bad for you won't stop it from happening. In fact, it may make you worry even more. Fortunately, you can learn to take stop worrying so much. When you do, you'll have a lot more time and energy to devote to the things that matter most. Here's a science-backed strategy that can help you contain your worrying to just a few minutes every day. I'll explain the science behind it and the step-by-step process for making it effective. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether you get stood up by a date or turned down for a job, rejection hurts. And while you might be tempted to pretend you don't care or to hide your rejection from others, minimizing your pain prevents you from healing. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to cope with rejection so you can work through the pain — and even heal some old emotional wounds in the process. Dr. Ronald Siegel is a professor at Harvard University and the author of many books including The Extraordinary Gift of Being Ordinary. Some of the things he talks about today are why rejection hurts so much, the common responses to rejection that don't actually help, and the steps we can take to heal the pain. Check out Dr. Siegel's website - DrRonSiegel.com Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Follow Amy Morin on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Send us an email at Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There's a lot of information about the mind/body connection and the ways exercise, in general, is good for mental health. But there's a lot less information about the specific exercises that can target certain aspects of emotional well-being. For example, running is just as effective in combating depression as antidepressants. And one of the best ways to reduce anxiety involves lifting weights. Swimming can even reduce the brain damage caused by stress. Some of the things I discuss today are the best exercises to combat seven specific mental health concerns, the science behind them, and the ways you can use movement to build mental strength. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Traumatic events can leave lasting emotional wounds. And our natural reaction is to try and pretend like those wounds don't hurt because we don't want to talk about the pain. But according to psychotherapist Duygu Balan, you don't necessarily need to talk about your traumatic experiences to heal. Instead, a creative outlet like writing might be the therapeutic exercise you need to work through the pain and heal your wounds. Some of the things Duygu talks about are how trauma affects us, why creative writing heals us, and how to know when to seek professional help. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Check out Duygu's book - Rewrite Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Check out Amy's website - AmyMorinLCSW.com Pick up a copy of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do Leave us a rating or review, and send the screenshot to podcast@amymorinlcsw.com. We'll reply with your free all-access pass to my course, "10 Mental Strength Exercises That Will Help You Reach Your Greatest Potential." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether you struggle to speak up in meetings or feel anxious whenever you meet new people, social anxiety is common. For some people, it's a minor inconvenience. But for others, social anxiety can interfere with daily life. Regardless of where you fall on the spectrum, you don't have to live with social anxiety forever. If you struggle with anxiety in social situations, try these three science-backed strategies to gain confidence and decrease fear.  Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Check out Amy's website - AmyMorinLCSW.com Pick up a copy of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do Leave us a rating or review, and send the screenshot to podcast@amymorinlcsw.com. We'll reply with your free all-access pass to my course, "10 Mental Strength Exercises That Will Help You Reach Your Greatest Potential." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

People struggling with addiction are often hiding in plain sight. They're your neighbors, co-workers, friends, and maybe even family members. Daniel Patterson used to be one of those people. He was a high school teacher and assistant principal who had a serious, secret drinking problem. He sometimes tried to make changes — and even saw a therapist — but he minimized the impact alcohol had on his life until he finally couldn't ignore it anymore. Some of the things he shares are the tricks his addiction played on him to convince him to keep drinking, the things he tried to reduce his drinking that didn't work, and the short-term experiment that eventually led to recovery. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Check out Daniel's website — PattersonPerspective.com Listen to his podcast — Sobriety Uncensored Listen to the other podcasts he suggests — Sober Motivation, Recovery Elevator, Sober Vibes Other resources to check out — SAMHSA and NAMI Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Check out Amy's website - AmyMorinLCSW.com Pick up a copy of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do Leave us a rating or review, and send the screenshot to podcast@amymorinlcsw.com. We'll reply with your free all-access pass to my course, "10 Mental Strength Exercises That Will Help You Reach Your Greatest Potential." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sometimes, building confidence and overcoming anxiety is complex. There are strategies that take months to learn and years to practice. But there are also some strategies that you can apply right away, and they work instantly. Some of the most successful entrepreneurs, performers, and athletes know how to apply these little tricks to become the best in the world. Here's a trick that is used by Beyoncé, Adele, and LeBron James as well as the psychology behind why this strategy is so effective. I teach you how to begin applying it to your life today.  Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Check out Amy's website - AmyMorinLCSW.com Pick up a copy of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do Leave us a rating or review, and send the screenshot to podcast@amymorinlcsw.com. We'll reply with your free all-access pass to my course, "10 Mental Strength Exercises That Will Help You Reach Your Greatest Potential." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you struggle with good judgment? If so, you're not alone. We all lack good judgment sometimes and often, it involves our struggle to identify someone's true character. Fortunately, organizational psychologist Richard Davis says we can improve our judgment once we better understand personality. He assesses personality for a living and he's written a new book called Good Judgment to help us better understand the skills and strategies we can use to become a better judge of character. Some of things we discuss: The five core dimensions of personality and how understanding them can significantly enhance your ability to judge character The questions to ask to uncover someone's personality The impact technology might be having on your judgment Bias Awareness and why it's essential to good judgment The exact strategies that can help you develop better judgment Why past behavior isn't actually a good predictor of future behavior Links & Resources Good Judgment RichardDavis.net X - @RDavisPhD Offers From Our Sponsors BetterHelp — Go to BetterHelp.com/MENTALLYSTRONG today to get 10% off your first month of therapy. AirDoctor — Head to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code STRONGER to receive UP TO $300 off air purifiers plus a free 3 year warranty. ZocDoc — Find a doctor or therapist today by downloading the app for free at ZocDoc.com/stronger ButcherBox — Go to Butcherbox.com/stronger and use code stronger at checkout and enjoy your choice of bone-in chicken thighs, top sirloins, or salmon in every box for an entire year, plus $20 off! Subscribe to Mentally Stronger Premium — Get weekly bonus episodes, monthly bonus content, and cool gifts (like signed books)! Connect with the Show Buy Amy's books on mental strength Connect with Amy on Instagram — @AmyMorinAuthor Email the show — Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com Order 13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don't Do Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karen Allen's husband was murdered 10 years ago when their son was just two years old. Over the last decade, Karen has learned to work through her grief despite the murder remaining unsolved. She transformed her life, took on a new career, moved to a new city, and wrote a book called Stop and Shift. Now, she's talking about her experience and how she learned the small shifts that can make a big difference in life. Some of the things she talks about are the strategies she used to deal with unhelpful thoughts, how she manages uncomfortable feelings, and the steps she took to work through her grief so she could heal. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Visit Karen's website - karenallen.co Watch Karen's TEDx talk - Use Your Tragedy to Change the World Check out Karen's book - Stop & Shift Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Check out Amy's website - AmyMorinLCSW.com Pick up a copy of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do Leave us a rating or review, and send the screenshot to podcast@amymorinlcsw.com. We'll reply with your free all-access pass to my course, "10 Mental Strength Exercises That Will Help You Reach Your Greatest Potential." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Everyone has a superpower that helps them get through difficult times — and everyone's superpower is a little different. You probably don't know what your superpower is though. By the end of this episode, you'll be able to identify your own unique superpower that will get you through any challenge you face. From a financial crisis to a mental health issue, this strategy will help you draw upon the mental strength you need to work through it.  Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Check out Amy's website - AmyMorinLCSW.com Pick up a copy of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do Leave us a rating or review, and send the screenshot to podcast@amymorinlcsw.com. We'll reply with your free all-access pass to my course, "10 Mental Strength Exercises That Will Help You Reach Your Greatest Potential." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most pet owners know that spending time with their pets helps them feel good. But did you know that watching animal videos could make you more productive? Or that owning a dog might help you combat an addiction? No one understands the animal-human bond and all the mental health benefits of owning an animal better than Dr. Doug Mader. Dr. Mader has a long history of caring for everything from household pets to zoo animals. He's also the author of The Vet at Noah's Ark. Some of the things he talks about are the science behind how animals help us grow mentally stronger, how to find the best pet for your lifestyle, and how to deal with the grief surrounding the loss of a pet. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Visit Dr. Mader's website - DougMader.com Buy a copy of The Vet at Noah's Ark Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Check out Amy's website - AmyMorinLCSW.com Pick up a copy of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do Leave us a rating or review, and send the screenshot to podcast@amymorinlcsw.com. We'll reply with your free all-access pass to my course, "10 Mental Strength Exercises That Will Help You Reach Your Greatest Potential." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if I said putting one positive thing in your calendar every week was more effective at combating depression than an anti-depressant? Or what if I said scheduling an activity that gives your life meaning could help you end an addiction? Studies show that a few simple behavior changes can be a powerful way to shift your mood and improve your life. And the best news is, you don't have to do grueling exercises or even difficult challenges to reap the rewards.  In fact, scheduling one fun activity every week could be all it takes to change your life. Here's how behavioral activation helps you grow mentally stronger, why it's so effective, and the ingredients you need to include to make it a success. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Check out Amy's website - AmyMorinLCSW.com Pick up a copy of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do Leave us a rating or review, and send the screenshot to podcast@amymorinlcsw.com. We'll reply with your free all-access pass to my course, "10 Mental Strength Exercises That Will Help You Reach Your Greatest Potential." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you have someone in your life who loves chaos? If you're honest, are there times when you stir things up to create a little drama too? Dr. Scott Lyons is a psychologist and the author of a new book called Addicted to Drama. Some of the things he talks about today are why some people thrive on chaos, how to deal with a dramatic person, and the exact steps you can take to stop the drama addiction. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Pick up a copy of Addicted to Drama Take the drama quiz Follow Dr. Lyons on Instagram - @DrScottLyons Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Check out Amy's website - AmyMorinLCSW.com Pick up a copy of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do Leave us a rating or review, and send the screenshot to podcast@amymorinlcsw.com. We'll reply with your free all-access pass to my course, "10 Mental Strength Exercises That Will Help You Reach Your Greatest Potential." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Overthinking can directly lead to mental health issues. Overthinking the past is linked to depression. Overthinking the future is linked to anxiety. It's also associated with poor problem-solving and difficulty sleeping. But we all overthink things sometimes — both small decisions and big problems. Fortunately, these strategies that can help when we're caught up into thinking too much. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Check out Amy's website - AmyMorinLCSW.com Pick up a copy of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do Leave us a rating or review, and send the screenshot to podcast@amymorinlcsw.com. We'll reply with your free all-access pass to my course, "10 Mental Strength Exercises That Will Help You Reach Your Greatest Potential." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most of us spend a lot of time thinking about what happened in the past — not what we want the future to be like. Consequently, we often let our past selves limit what we can do in the future. But best-selling author and organizational psychologist Benjamin Hardy says looking at our future selves is key to creating and crushing giant goals. Some of the things he talks about today are why we're more likely to hit goals that are 10 times bigger, how we find creative ways to reach our goals, and the steps we can take to increase our chances of success. Buy Dr. Hardy's Book - 10X is Easier Than 2X Visit his website - BenjaminHardy.com Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Check out Amy's website - AmyMorinLCSW.com Pick up a copy of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do Leave us a rating or review, and send the screenshot to podcast@amymorinlcsw.com. We'll reply with your free all-access pass to my course, "10 Mental Strength Exercises That Will Help You Reach Your Greatest Potential." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether you're feeling emotionally drained from a job you don't like or tired of trying to help someone who won't change, everyone sometimes feels emotionally exhausted. But people rarely talk about their emotional exhaustion or what to do about it. Fortunately, several strategies can restore your energy and help you feel prepared for whatever challenges life throws your way. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Check out Amy's website - AmyMorinLCSW.com Pick up a copy of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do Leave us a rating or review, and send the screenshot to podcast@amymorinlcsw.com. We'll reply with your free all-access pass to my course, "10 Mental Strength Exercises That Will Help You Reach Your Greatest Potential." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Did you know that eating salami can cause depression, boosting your Vitamin D intake can reduce your anxiety, and eating blueberries could help you cope with PTSD? While we all know nutrition plays a huge role in our physical health, it also directly impacts our mental health. Dr. Uma Naidoo is a Harvard-trained psychiatrist, professional chef, and trained Nutrition Specialist. She's also the author of a best-selling book called This Is Your Brain on Food. Some of the things she talks about today are the biggest nutritional threats to our mental health, the foods we should be incorporating into our diets to combat stress and mental illness, and the small changes to our diet that can make the biggest difference to our brain health. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Check out Amy's website - AmyMorinLCSW.com Pick up a copy of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do Leave us a rating or review, and send the screenshot to podcast@amymorinlcsw.com. We'll reply with your free all-access pass to my course, "10 Mental Strength Exercises That Will Help You Reach Your Greatest Potential." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most of us weren't taught how to deal with uncomfortable feelings, like anxiety, sadness, embarrassment, and disappointment. Instead, we learned to do things that work for us right in the moment, even though those same strategies may ultimately cause us more pain in the long run. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to learn how to cope with uncomfortable feelings better. This science-backed strategy is one of my personal favorites because it only takes a minute of your time, and you can do it from anywhere. It also works in an instant to help you feel better fast.  Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Check out Amy's website - AmyMorinLCSW.com Pick up a copy of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do Leave us a rating or review, and send the screenshot to podcast@amymorinlcsw.com. We'll reply with your free all-access pass to my course, "10 Mental Strength Exercises That Will Help You Reach Your Greatest Potential." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Choice overload can lead to decision deadlock. Whether you're trying to decide what kind of car to buy or what color to paint your wall, the overwhelming number of options make it challenging to make a decision. Studies show endless options can take a toll on our mental health. Fortunately, these seven strategies can simplify your decision-making process and prevent you from experiencing regret that you made the wrong choice. Some of the things I share are: The science behind choice overload and why it leads to mental exhaustion How to narrow down your options fast How stepping away from the decision-making process enhances clarity How to balance emotion with logic for wiser outcomes How to stop second-guessing your decisions How to be satisfied with the choice you made Offers From Our Sponsors BetterHelp — Go to BetterHelp.com/MENTALLYSTRONG today to get 10% off your first month of therapy. AirDoctor — Head to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code STRONGER to receive UP TO $300 off air purifiers! ButcherBox — Go to Butcherbox.com/stronger and use code stronger at checkout and enjoy your choice of bone-in chicken thighs, top sirloins, or salmon in every box for an entire year, plus $20 off! ZocDoc — Find a doctor or therapist today by downloading the app for free at ZocDoc.com/stronger Subscribe to Mentally Stronger Premium — Get weekly bonus episodes, monthly bonus content, and cool gifts (like signed books)! Connect with the Show Buy Amy's books on mental strength Connect with Amy on Instagram — @AmyMorinAuthor Email the show — Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com Order 13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don't Do Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health issues in the world. But anxiety is often misunderstood. While some people with anxiety disorders struggle to leave the house, others can't stand to be home. And while some chronically underperform, others become overachievers. Author Morra Aarons-Mele shares her own experience with anxiety and how she's learned to channel it into something helpful. Some of the things she shares are how to cope with anxiety, strategies for recognizing unhelpful habits that stem from anxiety, and how to use your anxiety to your advantage. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Check out Morra's book - The Anxious Achiever Visit her website - MorraAM.com Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Check out Amy's website - AmyMorinLCSW.com Pick up a copy of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do Leave us a rating or review, and send the screenshot to podcast@amymorinlcsw.com. We'll reply with your free all-access pass to my course, "10 Mental Strength Exercises That Will Help You Reach Your Greatest Potential." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We all have unhelpful and irrational thoughts sometimes. We exaggerate how bad something is, we beat ourselves up for a mistake that we made, or we predict bad things are going to happen. Those types of thoughts can swirl around in our brains and keep us stuck in a negative pattern. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to deal with those negative thoughts so they don't take a toll on you. Here's one of my favorite strategies for getting rid of the negative thoughts that aren't helpful. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community. Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Check out Amy's website - AmyMorinLCSW.com Pick up a copy of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do Leave us a rating or review, and send the screenshot to podcast@amymorinlcsw.com. We'll reply with your free all-access pass to my course, "10 Mental Strength Exercises That Will Help You Reach Your Greatest Potential." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you ever feel like you've fallen out of love with your partner, you're not alone. Many relationships grow stale. But what if you could take your relationship from mediocre to amazing? An incredible relationship has the power to change your life and help you become the strongest and best version of yourself. Andrew G. Marshall is a couples counselor and the author of the international bestselling book, I Love You But I'm Not in Love With You. Some of the things he discusses are how to confront problems, the exact things you can do to reignite a spark, and the steps you can take to feel passionately in love again. Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get bonus episodes, and exclusive content delivered to your feed every week. Links & Resources Check out Andrew's website - andrewgmarshall.com Learn more about Andrew's book - I Love You But I'm Not in Love With You Listen to Andrew's podcast - The Meaningful Life With Andrew G. Marshall Connect With the Show Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor Check out Amy's website - AmyMorinLCSW.com Pick up a copy of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do Leave us a rating or review, and send the screenshot to podcast@amymorinlcsw.com. We'll reply with your free all-access pass to my course, "10 Mental Strength Exercises That Will Help You Reach Your Greatest Potential." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices