A Canadian study of 219 sets of twins suggests that mental toughness has a strong genetic component. Tony Vernon, the lead researcher from the University of Western Ontario, said that the questionnaire-based study assessed the genetic and environmental contributions of 4 traits associated with mental toughness. These included: feeling in control over one’s life, commitment, confidence and the ability to face new challenges. Apparently 52% in the variation of mental toughness was due to genetics. Mental toughness also correlated strongly with extroversion.
What does this mean for those who are not positively genetically endowed? Well, they may worry more and be more pessimistic and may not have the courage to take risks but - and this is an important but - this does not mean that they cannot learn to be mentally tough. My work as a coach and consultant has afforded me the grand opportunity to witness people being transformed. We now know, thanks to the new field of neuroplasticity, that the brain is always changing and that one is able to change one’s brain in ways one wants…with a little guidance from a good coach.
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