The Effects And Development Of Mental Toughness In A Performer

Introduction of Mental Toughness “Mental toughness has often been associated with peak sport performance” (Sheard, 2010). Excellence may only be achieved if both physical and physiological contributions of performance are mastered as “mental toughness is a crucial prerequisite of sporting success (Gould et al, 2002). Mental Toughness is described by Wikipedia as a “collection of attributes that allow a person to persevere through difficult circumstances”. The attributes found in a mentally tough performer is the “Ability to cope with pressure, stress, and adversity”(Clough et al 2002), these self regulatory skills found in elite athletes and performers are what separate the best from the average. In this profile report I will be addressing the Psychological effects of a mentally weak performer, the outside contributing factors, influences and how they are affected. Then practical recommendations will be given towards the development of a performers mental toughness and how it can be maintained.

Psychological effects of a mentally weak performer The characteristics found in mentally tough performers are extremely vast and include confidence, self belief, optimism, commitment, desire, determination, all the way down to concentration focus and willpower. Unfortunately many people lack mental toughness and therefore suffer when striving to achieve excellence. Some signs of a mentally weak performer include giving up to easy, excessive complaining, procrastination, emotional breakdowns, and the tendency to blame others. Perseverance is also extremely important, you only fail if you give up. “If you are serious about becoming the best you can possibly be, the most essential ingredient is your commitment”(Orlick, 1990). Excessive complaining can have some fairly dramatic effects on a performer