Mental Toughness
- Barbara Giesing
- Jun 30
- 2 min read
There are times in most of our lives where we need mental toughness to get through whatever roadblock we’re facing. Projects that are difficult for various reasons, physical exertion or illness that strains our bodies, or even difficult choices we make at times require us to find some mental resources that we may not even realize we have.
In order to call upon that mental toughness, we need to hone the skill and determine how best to enhance it. Working with our staff to model and help develop their skills in this area can be beneficial beyond work life and may help them in their life challenges, too.
So how do we develop mental toughness? To me, this is a very personal journey. What helps you persevere? When dealing with a problem, what helps you work through it? Are there specific mantras you verbalize? Do you distract yourself with mind games or other distractions? Does considering other’s challenges and knowing individuals who made it through more difficult situations inspire you? Do you step away from the issue for a few minutes to clear your head?
We each need to discover what works for us.
A podcast recently extolled a time when the individual worked with a manager who taught that obstacles were good, creating opportunities to learn and grow. Resources scarce or missing? Great--how do we get things done regardless? Conditions poor? Great--this will help us learn what to do in less-than-ideal situations!
The crux of the idea was that life is rarely perfect, so developing the mental toughness to overcome obstacles may help.
What works for you could help someone else. Share this with your staff and see who wants to volunteer what helps them. You and your team may all find new ways to be inspired.
Celebrate difficulties. Use them as opportunities to move forward in ways you may not have seen without the problems. Work to develop mental toughness for you and your team.
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