What makes the difference?
Most of the time we answer these questions by looking at the skill set of the nation's top performers. The dazzling performances amazes us and leads us to believe that talent alone can make a performer great.
But we all know that talent is never enough..
All the great performers have one trait in common. TOUGHNESS.. I know that we put a big emphasis on size, strength and athleticism, but toughness is definitely the quality that separates two athletes who have equal ability.
In fact, when you do your research, you'll discover that your talent or your intelligence doesn't play that big of a role in greatness. The information I have found says that intelligence is only 30% the cause of your achievement.
They are studies that are starting to reveal that your mental toughness plays the most important role in achieving goals.
What Makes An Athlete Mentally Tough?
1.Attitude
I'm sure we've all heard the famous cliches: "your attitude will make or break you" and "your attitude determines your altitude." I here to tell you that these two quotes couldn't be more true. When it comes to toughness your attitude is key. The truly tough athletes are able to respond positively to anything that thrown at them. The truly tough athletes are able to respond positively to anything that thrown at them. No, that is not a typo I meant to type that sentence twice. When you can respond positively to any and everything it makes dealing with adversity easier.
2.Consistency
Consistency is the corner stone of toughness and is essentially the essence of greatness. Simply put Mentally tough athletes don't miss workouts. They show up everyday ready to get better. Teammates and coaches know what to expect from consistent players. There is no better feeling as coach than to know your players are going to show up everyday and strive for greatness.
3. Heart
Heart is the one quality that we all embrace. When I ask my players the question what makes a player tough they always say his heart. To be great in anything you have to show a positive attitude, a consistent work ethic and you have to have a big heart.
