The Definition of Tough - "Sports Psychology for Dummies" #1.

In the field of sport psychology, a lot of time and attention is dedicated to the idea of achieving and maintaining a high degree of mental toughness, and there is a good reason for this. The concept of mental toughness is central to any athletic training regimen, and is integral to consistent peak athletic performance. But while discussions often cover methods to increase this type of toughness, the idea of what mental toughness actually is, is not always spoken of in much depth.
In light of this, and to "kick off" a series of posts based on my work in the new book Sports Psychology for Dummies, instead of delving immediately into tips on increasing mental toughness, the definition of this type of toughness will first be laid out in a little more detail. Later posts will then outline methods that can be applied immediately to help increase it. Comments and questions are welcomed as the series progresses!

What mental toughness is
Athletes and coaches have defined mental toughness as:

• "...not letting anyone break you."
• "...not being affected by anything but what's going on in the game or competition, no matter what coaches, other players, or refs are doing. It's being able to block out what's not important."
• "...doing whatever is necessary to get the job done, including handling the demands of a tough workout, withstanding pain, or touching out an opponent at the end of a race."

Sport psychologists have their own definitions of the term. They say that mental toughness is about:

• Coping extremely well with the many demands (competition, training, school, and lifestyle) that athletics places on you
• Consistently remaining determined, focused, confident, and cool under pressure

Other ways to think about mental toughness are:

• Having an unshakeable belief that you can do something
• Staying focused in big moments
• Maintaining persistence and commitment amidst challenges
• Coping well with pressure
• Controlling your emotions
• Never giving up
• Fighting back after a tough loss
• Looking fear in the face

Having read through the previous thoughts on mental toughness, a clearer picture of the idea should begin to form. My favorite definition however, and the definition written in my book, is "the ability to fight and challenge yourself to become better, especially during tough times."
It is also important to remember that mental toughness can be developed where it is lacking, and can ebb and flow where it exists. It isn't static. With an awareness of what mental toughness is, one can begin work to develop this vital asset.

For more information on this topic, see chapter two of the book Sports Psychology for Dummies or call me at The Athletic Mind Institute, http://www.athleticmindinstitute.com/.