Being an entrepreneur requires a great deal of mental strength.  For all the time executives spend concerned about physical strength and health, when it comes down to it, mental strength can mean even more. We can define mental strength by identifying the things mentally strong individuals don’t do. Here are a list of five things that mental strong people DON’T do.

1. Feel the World Owes Them Anything.  Mentally strong people enter the world prepared to work and succeed on their merits, at every stage of the game. They have an understanding that just because they went to a certain school, received a certain education, or worked for a certain individual, it doesn’t automatically grant them a certain salary or a comfortable lifestyle.

2.    Shy Away from Change. Mentally strong people embrace change and they welcome challenge. Their biggest “fear’ is becoming complacent and stagnant. An environment of change and even uncertainty can energize a mentally strong person and bring out their best work.

3. Fear Alone Time. Mentally strong people enjoy and even treasure the time they spend alone. They use their downtime to reflect, to plan, and to be productive. Most importantly, they don’t depend on others to shore up their happiness and moods. They can be happy with others, and they can also be happy alone.

4. Worry About Pleasing Others.  A mentally strong person strives to be kind and fair and to please others where appropriate, but is unafraid to speak up. They are able to withstand the possibility that someone will get upset and will navigate the situation, wherever possible, with grace and compassion.

5. Fear Taking Calculated Risks. A mentally strong person is willing to take calculated risks. This is a different thing entirely than jumping headlong into foolish risks. But with mental strength, an individual can weigh the risks and benefits thoroughly, and will fully assess the potential downsides and even the worst-case scenarios before they take action.