Motivation and emotion/Book/2023/Mental toughness in the workplace

Mental toughness in the workplace:
How can mental toughness be useful in the workplace and how can it be developed

Multimedia presentation (3 min)

Overview

The idea of mental toughness is usually brought up in sports or competition context (Gucciardi & Gordon,2011). However, in the dynamic and ever changing modern society, mental toughness started to be recognised and generalised into different area, including the workplace. According to Gucciardi et al.(2015), mental toughness (MT) is described as one's working capacity in the direction of self-defined goal, dealing with challenges, adversities, demands and maintaining performances level.

The workplace of today's environment is characterised as rapid changing, intensely competitive, and high demanding on innovation. So, employees and leaders will face a lot of challenges and obstacles such as deadlines and complex project management. Within these obstacles, some more problem such as communication and interpersonal relationship might arise which might worsen the environment. In this situation, mental toughness become indispensable and vital as it provides essential traits to a person such as resilience, positive thinking, stress management and so on.

Case study- Kobe Bryant Figure 1. Kobe Bryant making free throws with his torn Achilles. Kobe Bryant, an NBA legend is the best example of displaying mental toughness as he shows strong MT throughout his whole career. He went into NBA when he was 19 which gave him a lot of pressure and attention. But it does not affect his performance which shows his strong mental resilience. Also, he constantly plays under discomfort and even tremendous pain. In a regular season, he was fouled and broke his Achilles. However, he insisted to walk to the free-throw line and made two free-throws (see Figure 1). The dedication he has shown his mental toughness to overcome challenges, obstacles and adversities. Moreover, after the injuries, he works so hard to rehabilitate as he wants to go back to the game, showing his determination and mental toughness. Check and correct the tense in this paragraph. During the 2009 NBA Finals. Facing the Orlando Magic, Kobe Bryant exhibited extraordinary resilience under intense pressure. In Game 4, with the Lakers trailing in the final moments, Bryant showcased his unyielding determination. Despite facing double-teams and relentless defense, he coolly sank a game-winning shot, clinching the victory. Kobe Bryant's mental toughness allow him to thrive under pressure. His confidence unshaken even in the face of the toughest opponents. His ability to maintain focus during the game was legendary, elevating his game when the stakes were highest.

Focus questions: What is mental toughness? What can mental toughness help people in the workplace? what are the examples that mental toughness can help? How can mental toughness be developed? What role does psychological factors play in the development of mental toughness?

What is mental toughness?

Historical development of mental toughness

The foundations of mental toughness can be seen in the work of sports psychologists during the early to mid-20th century. Researchers and practitioners in sports psychology explored the psychological factors that contribute to athletic performance, including mental resilience, focus, and determination. Notable figures like Coleman Griffith, one of the pioneers in sports psychology, laid the groundwork for understanding the psychological aspects of athletic achievement (Coleman, 1925). The term "mental toughness" gained prominence in the 1970s and 1980s, especially within the realm of sports psychology. Researchers and sports psychologists started to delve deeper into the psychological characteristics that set high-performing athletes apart. Mental toughness was then defined by Loehr (1995) as a personal attribute that can be applied in stressful situations to ensure peak performance. Mental toughness ensures that a person is resilient in the face of adversity and possesses strong self-efficacy and belief in their abilities.

Mental toughness also became associated with traits like confidence, focus, determination, and the ability to handle pressure. Notable psychologists such as Graham Jones and Jim Loehr made significant contributions to the understanding of mental toughness in sports (Jones et al., 2002; Jin & Wang, 2016). In the 1990s and beyond, the concept of mental toughness expanded beyond sports into areas such as business, leadership, and personal development. Researchers and professionals recognized the relevance of mental toughness in various contexts, leading to its integration into leadership training, organisational psychology, and performance optimisation programs. Earlier research in this field examined the perseverance of athletes and was further developed to consider its application in the corporate world (Loehr & Schwartz, 2018).

Measurement scales

The development of mental toughness measurement scales is a dynamic and evolving process that reflects the multidimensional nature of this construct. Researchers and psychologists have devised a range of scales, each capturing different facets of mental toughness, from emotional control and confidence to adaptability and perseverance. These scales aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of an individual's mental resilience, allowing for nuanced assessments that go beyond simplistic categorizations. The below table is some of the measurement scale for mental toughness that are relatively more common to be used.

Scale	year	Rating scale
Mental Toughness Inventory (MTI)	2012	Likert Scale, 1 (strongly disagree)–7 (strongly agree)
Mental Toughness Scale (MTS)	2013	Likert Scale, 1 (strongly disagree)–5 (strongly agree)
Mental Toughness Index (MTI)	2015	Patient reported
Mental ToughnessQuestionnaire-1	2002	Likert Scale, 1 (strongly disagree)–5 (strongly agree)
Mental, Emotional, and Bodily Toughness Inventory (MeBTough)	2008	Likert Scale, 1 (almost never)–4(almost always)

(Madrigal L et al., 2013; Farnsworth, J., et al., 2022)

Mental Toughness Traits

Resilience

Resilience is defined as positive adjustment, indicating the capacity to preserve or restore mental well-being even in the face of adversities (Wald et al., 2006). It is an ability to bounce back from setbacks, adapt to change, and persevere in the face of challenges. Resilient individuals can recover from difficult experiences stronger and more resourceful. Resilient individuals possess a positive outlook, maintaining optimism even in challenging circumstances. They emphasise solutions over problems, enabling effective navigation through obstacles. Additionally, a robust social support system comprising friends, family, and colleagues bolsters their resilience. These social connections offer emotional support, practical assistance, and a sense of belonging, all vital elements in building resilience. Furthermore, resilient people exhibit adaptability, showcasing flexibility in adjusting their strategies and behaviours when faced with changing circumstances. This adaptability equips them to cope more effectively with unforeseen challenges, enhancing their overall resilience (Herrman et al., 2011).

Hardiness

Hardiness is a concept proposed by Kobasa (1979) and consists of three domains which were control, commitment and challenge. It was further developed into the 4C model.

1. Challenge: Individuals high in hardiness view challenges and changes as opportunities for growth rather than threats. They are more likely to approach difficult situations with a positive attitude, seeing them as chances to learn and develop new skills.
2. Control: People with high hardiness believe that they have control over their own actions and can influence outcomes in their lives. This sense of control helps them manage stress by focusing on aspects they can change rather than dwelling on things beyond their control.
3. Commitment: Hardy individuals are deeply committed to their work, relationships, and activities. They find meaning and purpose in what they do, which provides motivation and endurance in the face of adversity. This commitment acts as a buffer against stress and burnout.

Hardiness is integral to mental toughness because it offers a structured framework for dealing with stress and challenges. It transforms the way individuals perceive and respond to difficulties, making them more adaptive, persistent, and positive in the face of adversity. In the workplace, hardiness can enhance an individual's capacity to lead effectively, navigate organizational changes, and maintain composure during high-pressure situations. It also fosters a growth mindset, enabling continuous learning and development.

How can mental toughness be useful in workplace?

4Cs model

A recent theoretical model developed by Crust and Clough (2011) builds upon these tenets of mental toughness by suggesting the need to meet the 4 Cs: control, challenge, commitment, and confidence.

Control: refers to the ability to manage and regulate one's emotions, thoughts, and behaviour, especially in challenging situations. Individuals with high control can stay calm under pressure, make rational decisions, and effectively cope with stress. They have a sense of mastery over their own reactions and can navigate difficult circumstances without being overwhelmed.

Commitment: represents the ability to set and pursue meaningful goals with determination and dedication. Individuals high in commitment are motivated, persistent, and willing to invest time and effort to achieve their objectives. They have a strong work ethic, set challenging but attainable goals, and stay focused on their pursuits.

Challenge: refers to the ability to perceive difficult situations as opportunities for growth and learning rather than as threats. Individuals with a high level of challenge see obstacles as challenges to overcome, not as insurmountable barriers. They embrace new experiences, take risks, and view setbacks as valuable learning experiences.

Confidence: relates to self-belief and positive thinking. It involves having faith in one's abilities, being optimistic about the future, and maintaining a strong sense of self-efficacy. Confident individuals believe in their capacity to succeed and are resilient in the face of failure or criticism.

Figure 2. People in workplace might burnout when facing high pressure situation.

The mental toughness model offers a valuable framework in the workplace. Control involves managing emotions and decisions under pressure, facilitating stress management and rational decision-making. Committed individuals exhibit strong work ethic and persistence, inspiring teams and enhancing productivity. Challenges are embraced by mentally tough employees, fostering resilience and adaptability crucial in dynamic environments. Confidence leads individuals to tackle challenging projects, present ideas convincingly, and foster trust, contributing to a positive work atmosphere. These traits, outlined by Gucciardi and Lee & Kim, enhance employee performance and foster a culture of innovation, making mental toughness indispensable in professional settings (Gucciardi et al., 2012; Gucciardi et al., 2015; Lee & Kim, 2023).

Enhanced Well-being

Figure 3. Mental toughness can increase authentic happiness in work.

A better mental toughness can help to improve mental health condition and increase authentic happiness which are beneficial in countering a stressful working environment.

The cultivation of mental toughness has emerged as a pivotal factor for enhancing both mental health and authentic happiness in the contemporary workplace. Adaptability, a core aspect of mental toughness defined by Gerber et al. (2013), extends beyond merely coping with change; it embodies thriving amidst novel challenges. In the modern workplace, characterised by constant shifts and advancements, adaptability becomes crucial. Adaptable employees seamlessly transition through changes, viewing them as avenues for personal and professional growth rather than disruptions. This perspective transforms challenges into opportunities, mitigating feelings of overwhelm and stress often associated with change. The synergy between adaptability and mental toughness significantly contributes to mental well-being. Those with higher adaptability and mental toughness experience lower stress levels and depressive symptoms (Jin and Wang, 2016). This symbiotic relationship acts as a buffer against workplace stressors, fostering mental resilience and overall wellbeing. Mental toughness equips individuals to navigate the complexities of the modern workplace, creating an environment where employees face challenges with confidence, enhancing mental health, and job satisfaction.

Additionally, authentic happiness, encompassing hedonic, eudaemonic, and a meaningful life (Seligman, 2002a, 2002b) correlates with superior work performance and job retention, benefitting both employees and employers. Mental toughness plays a vital role in fostering authentic happiness. Resilient individuals, adept at bouncing back from setbacks, approach challenges with optimism. Mental toughness enables effective emotion regulation, preventing negative emotions like anger and frustration from dominating the mindset. By managing emotions, employees maintain a positive emotional state, enhancing authentic happiness. Emotionally resilient individuals are less overwhelmed by workplace stressors, fostering a greater sense of happiness in their professional lives.

Boost Self-Efficacy

Self-efficacy, as defined by Bandura albert (1982), means a person's belief in his or her capability to successfully perform a particular task. Research conducted by Gucciardi et al. (2015) has indicated that there are moderate to large relations between mental toughness, self-efficacy and resilience while self-efficacy is positively related to work performance and job satisfaction (Ozyilmaz et al., 2018). While self-efficacy refers to an individual's belief in their ability to accomplish specific tasks, mental toughness provides the resilience and determination to face challenges. When an individual possesses both mental toughness and self-efficacy, they have the confidence to confront difficult situations at work. Their belief in their abilities is bolstered by their capacity to persevere and stay composed under pressure.

Moreover, people in workplace usually receive both positive and negative feedback which might affect their emotions. Self-efficacious individuals are more open to feedback and constructive criticism. Mental toughness helps them manage emotional responses to criticism, allowing them to view it as an opportunity for growth rather than a threat. The ability to accept and learn from feedback strengthens their self-efficacy while demonstrating mental toughness. Besides, both self-efficacy and mental toughness contribute to effective stress management. Self-efficacious individuals believe they can cope with stressors, while mentally tough individuals can endure and bounce back from stress. Together, they create a powerful buffer against workplace stressors, leading to improved well-being and job satisfaction. All in all, self-efficacy can be boosted by and with mental toughness which can be useful in workplace.

1 4C model included control, commitment, challenge and confidence:

	True
	False

2 There is no relationship between self-efficacy, resilience and mental toughness:

	True
	False

How can mental toughness be developed?

Genetics Influence

Studies in psychology and genetics have unveiled the genetic foundations of psychological traits, including aspects related to mental toughness. Jones et al. (2002) suggested hereditary elements in mental toughness, while Golby and Sheard (2006) explored the genetic links to positive attributes like resilience and dispositional optimism, emphasizing the genetic underpinnings of mental toughness.

Twin studies, a common approach in psychology, have affirmed the substantial genetic component in mental toughness, as demonstrated in research by Horsburgh et al. (2009). These studies, including social interactions and environmental factors, highlight the intricate interplay between genetics and mental toughness. Recent research, such as the study by Clough et al. (2010), has delved into neurobiological aspects, revealing that individuals with higher mental toughness scores exhibit specific brain structural differences, particularly in the right frontal lobe. These findings underscore the complex relationship between genetics, brain structure, and mental toughness, shedding light on the multifaceted nature of this essential trait.

Goal setting

Figure 4. Visual presentation of SMART goal.

Goal setting is an essential part to develop mental toughness as indicated by research, goal setting can help to aid in mental preparation, making them become more resilience even facing great obstacles (Hunt, M. et al., 2020). To amplify the impact of goal setting on mental toughness, the SMART goal theory becomes indispensable. SMART goals What does this stand for?, introduced by Doran in 1981, offers a structured and highly effective approach to goal setting. The acronym SMART encapsulates the essential criteria that goals should meet for optimal success.  Put these into a list:Being specific implies avoiding vague language and painting a precise picture of what needs to be achieved. Measurability ensures that goals can be quantified, allowing individuals to track their progress and discern when objectives have been met. Achievability highlights the importance of setting goals that are both challenging and realistic, striking a balance that prevents demotivation. The relevance of goals is paramount; they must align seamlessly with overarching objectives, ensuring that efforts are focused on what truly matters. Finally, the Time-bound criterion imposes a specific deadline, preventing goals from becoming open-ended pursuits and infusing them with a sense of urgency and purpose. Incorporating these SMART principles into goal setting not only enhances productivity but also provides unparalleled clarity and focus on the pursuit of objectives. By adhering to these criteria, individuals are empowered to transform their aspirations into tangible achievements, fostering mental toughness that enables them to conquer even the most formidable obstacles.

Self-determination theory

Figure 5. Graphic presentation of self-determination theory

It is believed that Self-determination theory can foster the development of mental toughness. Mental toughness, rooted in Self-Determination Theory (SDT) and Mahoney's categorization of striving, surviving, and thriving, represents a multifaceted trait essential for navigating life's challenges (Mahoney et al., 2014). SDT, as conceptualized by Deci and Ryan in 1885 and 2000, underscores the significance of autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Autonomy grants control over actions, empowering individuals to set goals aligned with their values. Competence provides the skills necessary for resilience and persistence, aiding both surviving and striving. Relatedness establishes a crucial support network, vital for enduring hardships (surviving) and finding fulfilment in achievements (thriving).

In adversity, mentally tough individuals demonstrate resilience, coping with stressors, managing emotions, and maintaining stability. Facing setbacks head-on, they adapt to unexpected circumstances, using obstacles as stepping stones for growth. Striving defines their proactive pursuit of goals, fostering determination and relentless effort. Challenges become opportunities, propelling them forward.

Thriving, the ultimate mental toughness manifestation, signifies contentment amid challenges. These individuals possess a positive outlook, robust self-belief, and a clear sense of purpose. Their resilience surpasses mere survival; it transforms into flourishing. Stress becomes a catalyst for growth rather than a hindrance. In the face of adversity, they find joy in their pursuits, maintain healthy relationships, and exhibit emotional intelligence.

1 Biological factors do not play a role in mental toughness development:

	True
	False

2 Striving, surviving and thriving are interrelated:

	True
	False

Conclusion

Mental toughness is a personal attribute that can be applied in stressful situations to ensure peak performance. It ensures that a person is resilient in the face of adversity and possesses strong self-efficacy and belief in their abilities. Mental toughness can help people in workplace to enhance well-being, boost self-efficacy, and valuing their resilience, determination, adaptability, and self-assurance by the 4C model. It can be useful in situation such as facing changes in workplace or learning new technology or skills. Although genetics contributes to the formation of mental toughness, it can also be developed by skills such as goal setting. Moreover, psychological factor also plays an important role in developing mental toughness such as the self-determination theory. Building up mental toughness can be time-consuming and hard, but it is definitely worth it when it is built as it can applied to different areas, including the workplace and life.

See also

• Academic resilience (Book chapter, 2021)
• Mental toughness (Book chapter, 2020)
• Mental toughness (Book chapter, 2021)
• Mental toughness (Wikipedia)

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External links

• Mental Toughness and Peak Performance: In Work, Leadership and Life, It Matters (2023)
• When tough isn't enough, build mental strength. Here's how. (2022)