Mentally Tough People: Builders of the Unseen, Masters of the Tangible
Mentally Tough People: Builders of the Unseen, Masters of the Tangible
Being tough in the peculiar realm of humans is associated with everything from mean muscles to astounding uniforms. But, under this lively masquerade lies a deeper level we tend to overlook – mental toughness. It is neither a gift on the genetic lottery nor a blessing from the skies. You either have it or you do not, albeit this gap can be bridged with one remarkable construction undertaking: block by block, you can form the kind of lasting inner strength that eventually becomes your defining trait.
Crystal ball(s)
Interestingly enough, scientists have identified grit as one of the best predictors of success in all areas of life. They have also confirmed the prevailing suspicions that things like talent and intellect do not account for that much in the real world. Namely, potential can remain underutilized, talent gets squandered, and ambitions end up shattered like glass.
On the other hand, mental prowess is a tireless bee in your bonnet, your inner eager beaver. It fills you with vigor to fight tooth and nail and go into overdrive. Instead of being intimidated by the overwhelming odds, you buckle down and go on to explore all avenues. Hence, mental toughness is recognized as a driving force behind numerous success stories in politics, business, sports, and everyday life.
Every step you take
Mental toughness does not mean that you are the smartest, fastest, strongest, or anywhere near. It simply means that you are more likely to be first out the gate and the one who walks an extra mile when others recuperate at the finish line. Thus, we all need to keep our nose to the grindstone and instill the values of mental toughness through the many trials and tribulations of life.
There is no such thing as cutting corners when it comes to harboring perseverance to reach your long-term goals. After all, mental toughness may be hard to define, but it leaves traces in the form of concrete results. That is why some people see it predominantly as a commitment to consistent practice, which always produces something tangible, unlike short and scattered burst of inspiration and productivity.
Blurred lines
So, how does one go about this daunting task? There are no easy answers: The recipe for building a sculpted body is no secret, but indeed, what about the endeavors we take in the fluffy mental realm? It is undoubtedly hard to find solid ground here and quicksand is not a good foundation, that much is for sure.
Yet, this is not to say that physical activity does not contribute to our mission. In fact, the two types of toughness are interwoven and mutually dependent. For instance, there are some combat systems and martial arts that provide valuable lessons for both mind and body. Krav Maga is an obvious example, as it teaches you to stop at nothing in order to overcome the opponent. Not a bad principle to apply to tackling obstacles in life, is it?
What is more, exercise teaches you to relinquish the constant urge for instant gratification, helps you melt the stress away, and shows that the path ahead is long and paved with your own blood, sweat, and tears. Still, it is important to note that training constitutes just one aspect of the bigger picture and that the seeds of change need to be nurtured elsewhere.
Approaching goals
Getting active is a good place to start, but you have to embrace a holistic approach, adjust your lifestyle, and work on good habits that stick. Try to set realistic goals and find ways to stay on the right track. Stop shirking responsibilities and making excuses for everything: do not miss a workout because you are down in the doldrums or operate on a tight schedule.
The ultimate goal is to facilitate a specific kind of building process and build a pristine inner sanctuary, which can withstand any pressure from outside. Its roof will reveal you that the sky is the limit. Mental toughness translates into competitiveness, motivation, work ethics, and other qualities that empower you to achieve your goals in life.
True Grit
Mentally tough people tend to be more successful and consistent than others and prove that this type of toughness is the best shot you have to accomplish greatness in life. You have to remember that a sustained commitment to your ambitions and goals is the core engine, your primary tool for the long race that life is. And when all your lifestyle choices and day-to-day decisions add up, they form a structure of true value, a force capable of bringing about a positive, overarching change.
