Western society is externally oriented. We are increasingly looking to sources beyond ourselves to find validation, get inspiration from our heroes, and measure our achievements. In short, we look to the outside for what can only really be found on the inside.
In order to be successful, we have to work on ourselves from the inside, and only later on the outside. Inner excellence has nothing to do with status; it is the way we think and behave, it is the quality of our soul, a mindset whereby we accept responsibility for our thoughts, feelings, and actions, regardless of the difficulties we may encounter.
Numerous studies have shown that mental training improves not only performance and productivity, but also the enjoyment we get from performing the activity itself. We can learn to use our mind at any age, in order to achieve our dreams and objectives, and to stay focused during a performance, steadfast in the face of adversity, and motivated during moments of tedium.
Just like exercising a muscle, building a certain level of mental strength takes time and effort. Yet, the more we work on ourselves from the inside, the more we will see results on the outside. Mental strength is not innate; it is acquired through practice and commitment. If we want to develop our mental abilities, we must train and exercise our mind, just as we would work on any other skill, expertise or personal quality.
