The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.
Martin Luther King Jr.
Today’s athletes must constantly strive for improvement, both physically and mentally if they wish to find success. Developing mental toughness requires a deliberate concentration of energy on strengthening of focus and maintaining a positive mindset. The teachings and life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. not only provided the much needed catalyst for racial equality, but also offered insight to improving character for members of all races. His teaching inspires people of all colors and genders to strengthen their character and love for one another. An athlete who seeks to improve their character and integrity also gains an increased mental toughness which improves their overall physical performance.
A strong mental focus requires that all thoughts and energy remain in the present and on positive forms of action. Shortcomings and disappointments are quickly forgotten, or reframed into a constructive thought for change. Dr. King offered the advice on continual improvement despite obstacles when he wrote, “If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.” Sports psychologists today still promote this idea to today’s athletes of continual improvement, not focusing on what cannot be accomplished, but rather utilizing mental energy on the present and what can be attained.
The athlete with a strong mental mind and confidence understands the ability to retain vision. They constantly strive for greatness, and comprehend what success actually looks like. Dr. King spoke of maintaining a vision and a dream of his goals for our society. He lived his dream every single day, in every single speech. Victorious athletes also find power in maintaining a constant focus on their desired performance. They must set their goals, then live and breathe them everywhere in life, not just on the court. Character and mental toughness reside in a player’s attitude and actions everywhere.
While there is still much needed for total racial equality in our country, the changes in societal beliefs and racism drastically improved as a direct result of Dr. King and his teachings. Kobe Bryant offered his tribute when he recently said, “He’s a pioneer. He’s a changer. He is a movement. He himself is a movement. What he’s done for all of us goes beyond words and measure.” The effort to attain racial equality in society spilled over into the sports arena.
Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant paid homage to Dr. King for the advancements in the game, “A guy who fought so hard for what he believed in, as far as making everybody equal. Of course if it wasn’t for him, this wouldn’t be going on. That’s something very important to all of us in this league.” Dr. King’s teachings and movement directly affects the athletes of today’s generation, and provides an incredible insight into what is needed to develop mental toughness through character and integrity, regardless of race or gender.
