How Mental Toughness is Key in Sports and in Life

No one likes doing things that are hard or uncomfortable... with maybe the exception of David Goggins. So why even think about doing things that challenge us mentally? Why not do what makes us feel warm and comfy inside? Here are your reasons:  


1. Mental Toughness is Preparation for the Future

Being able to tolerate difficult experiences that challenge the mind prepares us for the future. When we complete a challenging task without breaking, we will come through being more wise about how to conquer our own mind. This also means that we will become more aware of how we react to and tackle challenges. One can then analyze his/her approach and ponder how to improve tackling mentally difficult tasks.

By continuously facing difficult circumstances and building mental toughness, in the future, one can become unfazed with a task that is seemingly difficult to most. And when tasks arise that the majority are unable to complete due to being mentally weak, the person who had been preparing mentally will come out on top and be rewarded not only with external awards, but also with satisfaction of the accomplishment.


2. Mental Toughness Gains Respect

Being mentally tough gains not only one's peers', employers', or coaches' respect, but also respect for oneself. I believe that gaining respect from others only manifests if one has respect for self. There are many things one can do to gain respect for self, but the root act of all these things is keeping a long-term goal in mind and taking action each day, whether it may be a sacrifice or doing something that takes one out of his/her comfort zone, that will put one a step closer to his/her goal. If we respect ourselves, we will do what we know is best for us even if it is difficult or uncomfortable. A mentally strong person will take action on things that are hard to do and know that it will only make them stronger in the long-term.


3. Mental Toughness Unlocks New Freedoms

When we respect ourselves, we will eventually gain the respect of the individuals around us. Being a respected individual means that people can trust and rely on you, even in hard times. When one has the trust of most individuals he/she comes across, power is manifested. Now, power and freedom come hand-in-hand, so one now also has more freedoms, which is the ultimate goal. 

Why is freedom the ultimate goal? Freedom brings more opportunities. And if one receives an abundance of opportunities, he/she is on the path to success because the more experiences we have the more knowledge we have, and knowledge is valuable. A capable, knowledgeable person is more valuable than gold. 


I hope this post has inspired you to get out of your comfort zone and take the necessary steps that will propel you toward your long-term goal. Comment below the actions you take that challenge you mentally. Thanks for reading!

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