Mental Strength Friday Fix: The Difference Between Acting Tough and Being Strong By Amy Morin, LCSW Amy Morin, LCSW Amy Morin, LCSW, is a psychotherapist and international bestselling author. Her books, including "13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do," have been translated into more than 40 languages. Her TEDx talk, "The Secret of Becoming Mentally Strong," is one of the most viewed talks of all time. Learn about our editorial process Published on September 30, 2022 Print Verywell / Julie Bang Table of Contents View All Table of Contents Friday Fix: Episode 202 More About the Podcast On The Verywell Mind Podcast, Amy Morin, LCSW, shares the “Friday Fix”—a short episode featuring a quick, actionable tip or exercise to help you manage a specific mental health issue or concern. Follow Now: Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Google Podcasts Friday Fix: Episode 202 There’s a big difference between acting tough and being strong. But, these terms are often confused. When people want to act tough they say things like, “I’m not scared!” even when they are or “That didn’t hurt!” even when it did. Sometimes, the desire to act tough stems from a belief that showing vulnerability is a form of weakness. So people act as though they don’t care or that they aren’t bothered by anything. People are often applauded for acting tough too. Someone might say, “I’m so impressed you got this report done even though you’re sick,” or “I’m so impressed you didn’t even cry at the funeral.” The truth is, we all act tough sometimes. There are times when acting tough can serve a purpose. There will be times when you need to set your feelings aside and push through something difficult. It’s OK to acknowledge that you feel uncomfortable, to ask for help, and to be vulnerable with other people. In fact, it often takes more strength to acknowledge your feelings or to admit to your mistakes. It can be helpful to stop and ask yourself, “Is what I’m doing right now an example of being strong, or am I just acting tough?” So, in this episode, I explain the key differences between being strong and just acting tough. Once you recognize those differences, you can choose to start doing the things that help you grow mentally stronger. Recovering From the Fear of Vulnerability More About the Podcast The Verywell Mind Podcast is available across all streaming platforms. If you like the show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Reviews and ratings are a great way to encourage other people to listen and help them prioritize their mental health too. Editor’s Note: Please be mindful that this transcript does not go through our standard editorial process and may contain inaccuracies and grammatical errors. Thank you. For media or public speaking inquiries, contact Amy here. Download the Transcript Links and Resources Follow Amy Morin on Instagram Check out Amy’s books on mental strength If You Liked This Episode You Might Also Like These Episodes: Friday Fix: The One Question You Should Ask Yourself Every Day to Grow Mentally Stronger Break Free From Shame With Actor/TV Host Terry Crews Friday Fix: How to See Vulnerability as a Strength Not a Weakness As a Therapist, Here Are 5 Things I Wish More People Understood About Mental Strength By Amy Morin, LCSW Amy Morin, LCSW, is a psychotherapist and international bestselling author. Her books, including "13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do," have been translated into more than 40 languages. Her TEDx talk, "The Secret of Becoming Mentally Strong," is one of the most viewed talks of all time. See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Review Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? Other Helpful Report an Error Submit