Welcome to “Athlos” a weekly Wednesday blog which examines pillars of personal excellence and regularly brings together the worlds of spirituality and sport.
Thoughts are powerful
“Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking… “-1 Peter 4:1
Thoughts are life-changing
“You are what you think”. This well-known saying has been attributed to Ralph Waldo Emerson. It succinctly captures the transformative power of our minds. Other similar expressions have also surfaced over time, such as “You are what you love” which is actually the title of an audiobook I recently listened to.
Today’s title “mentality monsters” is not my own. It’s a term that has become associated with Liverpool Football Club in the English Premier League. Three years ago, Paul Tomkins wrote a book under that name, describing the incredible impact that Jurgen Klopp has had as Liverpool’s manager.
How we think impacts us in profound ways. In the world of knowledge work, the concept of “focused attention” has been popularized by writers like Cal Newport as they articulate the value of concentrating on the right things and doing so without distraction. Our thoughts even affect our moods and set the tone for the day.
The apostle Peter quoted above, a close associate of Jesus Christ, addressed his audience by urging them to think as Jesus did. Peter was all too familiar with Jesus’ sufferings and watched him overcome intense odds as he journeyed to the cross. Jesus embraced hardship and suffering propelled by his love for humankind. It was love that kept him going when he could have given up in the face of physical, emotional and spiritual pain.
How are your thoughts today? What are you truly focusing on? Are you feeding your mind with content that empowers you or weakens you? Mindset and mentality matter.
Thoughts count
As far as it depends on you, set your mind on what is wholesome, right and true.
If you were inspired by this blog, please consider sharing it with one other person today. To learn more about these and other related themes that promote the cultivation of an integrated inner self, read UNBEATABLE! which is available on Amazon in print and as an e-book.
This Post Has 2 Comments
Thank you. A powerful reminder for me. This came at just the right time. Too often I let people define me and repeat their negativity. GOD is who determines who I am. Paul got thst early.
Well said, Michelle. Humans cannot determine your intrinsic worth. Your value is a divine gift.