We recently witnessed history in the making: an epic Australian Open tennis final. Novak Djokovic outlasted Rafael Nadal in the longest ever men’s singles grand slam final lasting 5 hours and 53 minutes. The lead changed numerous times throughout the match and remained dead-locked until the fifth set, where the game remained in the balance. Earlier on in the final set, Djokovic seemed down and out as he lay flat on his back after losing an exhausting point to Nadal. Eventually however, Djokovic won through.

“You’re in pain, you’re suffering, you know that you’re trying to activate your legs, you’re trying to push yourself another point, just one more point, one more game,” Djokovic said after the match.

“You’re going through so much suffering your toes are bleeding. Everything is just outrageous, you know, but you’re still enjoying that pain.”

What gave Djokovic the edge over Nadal? Arguably they are equals from a physical talent perspective and both have the necessary experience and drive to win.

I believe the answer is mental toughness. Djokovic had a career best year in 2011 and a lot of experts put that down to his increased mental strength and resilience.

On a daily basis, we all come up against unexpected issues and problems in both work and our personal lives. When the going gets tough, giving up or quitting is the easy way out. Those who are able to repeatedly pick themselves up after set-backs and duress will only get stronger through the experience. In my experience, people who have been able to push through and persevere in tough times have been more successful when compared to peers in their industry.

The year of the dragon will be a challenging year career wise for a lot of us, so those who can display mental fortitude will put themselves into the best possible position to thrive.

Until next time.

Career advice, mental toughness, Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal. Australian Open 2012, year of the dragon