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Is Mental Toughness Inherited?

Dr Elizma van der Smit. April 2018

· Life Skills,Mind

You may be wondering if mental toughness is an inherited trait? Is it something that you are born with or can mental toughness be developed by anyone? The good news is that anyone can improve their mental toughness if they are prepared to take action.

Right now, you may be thinking this is not possible. You see plenty of people around you that seem to get just about everything they wish for. A friend gets on the college football team or they get chosen for a pro team. There you are hoping for the same, but not seeing any opportunities!

There is actually a good reason for this and it has to do with your mental toughness. How would you describe your attitude and the level of your passion towards your goal? Do you want to be on a pro team more than anything else, or is it just a wish?

If you are truly passionate about something, then your mindset automatically changes. You have the drive and motivation to make it to all of your practices. You are the one who stays later, or shows up early to get additional practice time in.

Have you ever noticed that some people who don't seem to have as much talent for something, become extremely successful at it? This is because they have the passion and the perseverance to reach their goal.

Mental toughness is a factor that separates those who are good and those who are great. This is such a huge factor that it actually outweighs talent. A talented musician may not get as far as a musician with only average musical skills. This is because the average musician has far more mental toughness.

There are certain traits that are displayed by people with mental toughness. These include:

  • Motivation
  • Positive mindset
  • Self-control
  • Good at handling pressure
  • Being energetic

These are the type of people who can turn on a dime and change direction. If things don't go their way, they don't get disappointed. They simply go with the flow and change course and adapt.

So, if you have a goal or a dream that you want to reach you need to start making plans and taking action so you can achieve it. Map out a plan of attack and don't let anything stand in your way. Be flexible and ready to take action at any time. If something comes up and you miss your training time, don't let it pass. Just reschedule it so that you get your session in.

When you can do these things, you are well on your way to showing that you do have what it takes to achieve your goals and dreams.

 

This post is for informational purposes only. It should not be considered therapy.This blog is only for informational and educational purposes and should not be considered therapy or any form of treatment. We are not able to respond to specific questions or comments about personal situations, appropriate diagnosis or treatment, or otherwise provide any clinical opinions. If you think you need immediate assistance, call your local doctor/psychologist or psychiatrist or the SADAG Mental Health Line on 011 234 4837. If necessary, please phone the Suicide Crisis Line on 0800 567 567 or sms 31393.

This blog is only for informational and educational purposes and should not be considered therapy or any form of treatment. We are not able to respond to specific questions or comments about personal situations, appropriate diagnosis or treatment, or otherwise provide any clinical opinions. If you think you need immediate assistance, call your local doctor/psychologist or psychiatrist or the SADAG Mental health Line on 011 234 4837. If necessary, please phone the Suicide Crisis Line on 0800 567 567 or sms 31393.