Physical muscles build up by facing the challenge weight. Mental muscles too grow stronger as we challenge them. According to Barbara Fredrickson, a leading positive psychology researcher, “in life there are situations where you have to perform in areas where you are weak, and it is those situations that may bring the most pride and the most lasting sense of confidence, achievement, and strength as well.” First and foremost, inner strength is developed by putting oneself in challenging situations, outside of one’s comfort zone.  Once you put yourself out in the open, you must surrender all aggression, harness your innate strengths to deal with the challenges, and break some sweat.