“The most important element in the character make-up of a man who is successful is that of mental toughness”
Mental toughness was one of Lombardi’s favourite subjects, and it was his belief that it was one of the most important skills of any leader. Lombardi had a clear definition of what he believed mental toughness was.
For him it was the ability to hold onto your goals and objectives in the face of immense pressure and stress. In his methods of leading he would actively seek out situations where he was under such pressure, he thrived on this and it drove him on to be even more determined in what he was doing.
For him mental toughness could be developed within his players and he gave us three tips on how to do this.
Keep the pressure on: He believed good leaders should always keep the pressure on their players in order to keep them motivated and up for the challenge.
Never give in: perhaps the most important quality that makes for mentally tough players. The ability no matter what the scoreboard says to carry on and not give up.
Work at it: Mental toughness is all about the willingness to meet commitments you make to yourself. Only you can keep yourself motivated when the immovable obstacles are placed in your path.
