Strength means _____ ?

When you think of a big brother, usually the first thing that comes to mind is someone wiser and stronger. [Most days] my oldest brother lives up to this stereotype. For as long as I can remember, he has encouraged me to challenge myself to become my "best self". He has recently asked the question over on his website , 'What is strength?' 

For me, the answer is very simple.

For me strength = health.

When I think of strength I think of health. When I am feeling mentally and physically strong, I feel healthy. With that, my aim is to have the strength to tackle any challenge I face, or have the right tools to get me there.  I work towards this goal by challenging my body daily. Doing so allows these two strengths to work together, to make me feel as healthy as possible.

Physical strength often seems more straightforward. I work on this through lifting, hiking, running, eating well, and living an overall active lifestyle.

Mentally I challenge myself through reading about concepts that interest me and asking questions about things I don’t understand, working hard on things I’m good at, and not as good at. But, most importantly, by surrounding myself with positive people. 

I encourage you to stop and think about what makes you feel strong? Is it going to the gym every morning, or taking the dogs for a long walk at night? Who is there supporting you? Is there anyone holding you back? 

Life is too short to not be as healthy and strong as you can be!