We must have a strong mind if we are to overcome the obstacles we meet in everyday life. It takes more than talent or skill to lead a powerful life. Research indicates that intelligence accounts for only 30% of our achievement.
A strong mind that pushes through adversity is what is needed to live in today’s culture. It’s an inner quality that enables people to work hard and stick to their goals.
The good news is that a strong mind is not something we are born with. It is something that can be developed. There are characteristics that a strong mind possesses. They embody 4 elements:
1. Confidence
2. Persistence
3. Dedication
4. Control
How can we create a strong mind that is the trademark of those people who live large in a world full of possibilities?
Here are a few things I’ve been learning in my own life. I’m a work in progress.
1. Confidence. We have to work on confidence every day. When you improve a little each day eventually bigger things will come. Seek out small improvements, one day at a time, then when it happens it will last. Confidence in ourselves and our abilities will make us successful.
Confidence is a belief in yourself and your ability to meet your goals. Push yourself out of your comfort zone and expose yourself to different situations. Learn how to push through the uncomfortable. Once you have confidence in yourself, you will be amazed at what you can accomplish.
I can sit in a room full of people talking and not say a word. I am completely comfortable with it. It’s how I was raised “To be seen and not heard.” But I know I have to push myself out of that comfort zone if I’m going to get anywhere in life.
2. Persistence. Every time I get knocked down I get back up. A strong mind isn’t built on something slapped together on a shallow foundation. It needs a solid rock. Like a tree, the higher you want it to go, the deeper you have to plant the roots.
Persistence is the tendency to see life obstacles as challenges to be met, rather than threats. Don’t whine or complain, or point fingers, or blame others for your predicament. Work on being the hero of your own life and choose your destiny.
3. Dedication. It’s important to proactively seek out learning opportunities and maintain a positive attitude when working towards a goal. Be a disciple of your own deep values and beliefs.
Strong-minded people have a dedication that comes from a purpose in alignment with their deepest values.
4. Control. A strong mind shuts out feelings of fear and inadequacy. And focuses on how to reach the goal. It’s important to control your emotions, thoughts, and behavior rather than trying to control other people.
I have found the best way to control your situation is to invest energy into it so that you will understand all the aspects of the situation. This allows you to pinpoint every part of the challenge. It’s important to throw out the preconceived ideas of what you can, and cannot do.
When you train yourself mentality to prepare for the worst and practice ahead of time to overcome it. Control is having a certainty that you are able to shape your destiny and not passively accepting events as fate.
From Pity to Praise 