How to Train Your Brain for Emotional Strength: Essential Steps for Rational Decisions

The misconception that rational people are immune to emotions is simply not true. While rational individuals may manage their emotions more effectively, the ability to remain neutral in the face of life's challenges is crucial for making sound decisions. This guide, inspired by sports psychologist Trevor Moawad, will help you develop a neutral mindset, enhancing your emotional resilience and rational decision-making.

Five Steps to a Neutral Mindset

According to renowned sports psychologist Trevor Moawad, achieving a neutral mindset involves several key steps. First and foremost, go neutral.

Go Neutral

Moawad emphasizes the importance of accepting events and emotions as they happen. Instead of dwelling on past mistakes or negative outcomes, focus on moving forward. This mindset, heavily influenced by Zen principles, encourages a calm and accepting attitude even when faced with disappointing decisions from others. For instance, politicians' choices may elicit strong emotions, but a neutral mindset helps you remain objective and focused on your own process.

Stop Giving Credence to Feelings

Feelings are not always an accurate reflection of reality, argues Moawad. Emotions are often colored by negativity and can cloud our judgment. Therefore, it's essential to stop giving too much value to feelings. Paying attention to feelings can divert your focus away from your goals and training. Moawad suggests that we should not be overly influenced by our emotions but rather rely on facts and objective data.

Control Behaviors, Not Feelings

Moawad further explains that while feelings are far less controllable than behaviors. Instead of trying to feel better, focus on the actions that lead to positive outcomes. By behaving in a way that supports your goals, you can work your way into a better emotional state.

Use What You Have

Avoid letting external factors define who you are. Use your knowledge and natural skills to your advantage, and disregard negative external assessments. Embrace your capabilities and use them to the best of your ability. Remember, the world may tell you that you are “not enough,” but they do not truly know you.

Reduce Negativity and Negative Thoughts

Negative thoughts and emotions are detrimental to performance. Moawad asserts that less negative is significantly more powerful than more positive. Negative thinking can hinder your ability to capitalize on your talents and maximize your potential. Focus on eliminating negativity and shifting your mindset to a more optimistic and constructive one.

Critical Thinking and Valuing the Truth

Ultimately, true emotional strength and rational decision-making are built on a foundation of critical thinking. Critically thinking individuals do not accept information at face value. Instead, they research topics thoroughly, weigh evidence from all angles, and form their own conclusions. Critical thinkers value the truth above all else, even if it challenges their preconceived notions.

The truth is objective and verifiable with facts and data. While opinions can be subjective, the truth remains constant. Embracing this approach will help you make informed and rational decisions, even in the face of challenging situations.

Conclusion

Developing emotional strength and a neutral mindset is a journey, not a destination. By following these steps, you can enhance your ability to make rational decisions and maintain control over your emotions. Remember, the goal is to stay objective, focused, and committed to your goals regardless of external influences or emotional turmoil.