Toughest playing field lies between the ears

Golfing great Arnold Palmer said: “My father always said to me, ‘Remember, whatever game you play, 90 percent of success is from the shoulders up.’”

Palmer has never flaunted his success as a golfer or businessman. When I visited him a couple years ago in Latrobe, Pa., I learned that although he has won hundreds of trophies and awards, the only trophy in his office is a battered little cup that he got for his first professional win at the Canadian Open in 1955. There is also a framed plaque on the wall, which explains why he has been successful on and off the golf course. It reads:

If you think you are beaten, you are.

If you think you dare not, you don’t.

If you’d like to win but think you can’t,

It’s almost certain you won’t.

Life’s battles don’t always go

To the stronger or faster man,

But sooner or later, the man who wins

Is the man who thinks he can.

I later discovered that this was part of a longer poem written by C.W. Longenecker. It’s all about mind over matter – mental toughness.

We often hear the term mental toughness from athletes, coaches and sports commentators, but it translates to all aspects of life, especially business. Mental toughness is persevering through difficult circumstances. It is conditioning your mind to think confidently and being able to overcome frustration.

Athletes must be in tip-top physical shape, but if they don’t prepare themselves just as much mentally, they will never become champions.

Serena Williams, like other top tennis players, uses her mental strength to succeed. She uses power thoughts during her matches and reviews them on changeovers, which helps her focus and get her game back on track if necessary. Her thoughts include: “My good thoughts are powerful.” “Hang on to the thought of what you want. Make it absolutely clear.” “You are No. 1.” “You are the best.” “You will win.”