Right Bodybuilding Mindset: Why Is It Important?
Do you agree that bodybuilding is not just a physical endeavor? Sure, you would need your physical strength to do 10 repetitions of the goblet squat with a dumbbell. But it’s not just your body that is working. Your mind is working as well. Having the right bodybuilding mindset is just as important as having a strong body.
Many fanatics quit or don’t go through the end because their will is not strong enough. You don’t just prepare your body. If you want to see that silver lining at the end of your bodybuilding journey, you must prepare your mindset as well.
Why is it Important to Have the Proper Bodybuilding Mindset?
Many bodybuilders just shrug their shoulders off and never give a thought to this question.
Some think that it’s enough to be on the gym everyday and follow a strict diet.
Whilst these are undoubtedly important in achieving your goal, you should not overlook your mental strength as well. Having the right mindset is essential in your bodybuilding journey.
Bodybuilding is a psychological endeavor
Mind you, bodybuilding is an extreme psychological endeavor.
Your will should be as strong as an iron-fist, otherwise, you may end up giving up. Your strong will should be the drive that pushes you to do one more round of weight training. It should be the burning fire to keep you disciplined and persistent. It should be the voice that encourages you to get up and get going despite the body aches.
Bodybuilding can be mentally exhausting as it can be physically draining. You will be tested a lot of times. There would be countless of times that you would feel like on the verge of giving up.
No matter how hard it could be, you’d be able to go through it as long as you have the right mindset and perspective. Bodybuilding can be a mind game. As long as you are psychologically prepared and fit, there’s no doubt that you could win this game.
Bodybuilding is not for the weak
Bodybuilding signifies strength. First thought that comes to your mind when you think of bodybuilders is bulky muscled men.
This is a holistic process that does not just require physical strength. It also entails mental and emotional strength. If you’re weak in any of these aspects, then you must thrive to become stronger. Otherwise, it would be impossible to succeed.
There’s no room for mediocrity
If you think bodybuilding is about taking a workout selfie for 50 minutes and actually working out for 10 minutes, then this is not for you.
There’s no room for mediocrity. Being “partially into it” is a no-no. It’s either you’re 100% in or you’re not at all. You’re just leading yourself to failure if you’re not giving your all.
So if you have decided to embark on this journey, be physically, emotionally and mentally prepared. The journey may not be an easy one but the destination is definitely worth every bumps and humps.
Tips on Developing the Right Bodybuilding Mindset
We have now established that having the right mindset is necessary. But the next question is, how do you develop this right mindset? How do you shift from a half-believer to a full-pledged committed bodybuilder?
This is not an overnight process. It takes a lot of time to get to the finish line. But your first step must start now.
Here are some tips that you can use in developing the right mindset.
1. Create a realistic plan.
Unrealistic goals are one of the biggest drive-killers.
If you’re setting your goals too high, you may end up beaten down. If your dream is to be as bulky as Hugh Jackman on your first month of bodybuilding, then you’re more likely to fail and get disappointed.
Disappointments can sometimes get the best of us. If you feel like you’re not getting to where you want to be, you might just stop making the effort.
Creating a realistic plan will more likely lead you to success. Start from a small and attainable goal. Increase your goal as you go along. Sure, who does not want to look as strong as Hugh Jackman? But being too hard on yourself won’t get you to this dream.
2. Learn how to be flexible.
Life sometimes throws lemons. Circumstances that are beyond our control can sometimes happen and this could hinder us from doing the things that we want to do.
Being flexible is a good skill not just in bodybuilding. Learning how to make the situation workout for your best interest is a great life skill. If you didn’t get to stick to your one-hour workout today because of an emergency, that’s fine. You can make up with it tomorrow. If you can’t stick to your high protein diet today because of a dinner prepared by your mother, that’s totally fine. You can go back to your strict healthy diet tomorrow.
Whilst it’s important to have a plan, sticking to it at all times may not be reasonable. You may just be stressing yourself too much if you’re forcing things. If you learn how to make the most out of every situation, you’re more likely to succeed.
3. Focus on your goal.
When you keep your eyes on the prize, you would survive every hurdle and distraction. No matter how hard the journey is, keep your focus on your goals. There’s no room for quitting when you’re determined to reach the finish line. No matter how bumpy and windy the road is, keep on working towards your goal. Keep in mind that all of your hardwork will pay off.
4. Consistency is the key.
Consistency establishes a habit. A habit forms a behavior.
If you’re consistent on working towards your goals, you will never waiver to distractions or temptations. Sure, it’s okay to rest once in a while. But being consistent in taking the step, regardless of how hard it is, will lead you to your goal.
5. Celebrate every success.
All work and no play makes John a dull boy. This goes the same for bodybuilding.
Bodybuilding is a hard journey. Lighten it up by celebrating every little success. Reward system is always effective in boosting your moral and increasing your motivation. So in every muscle gained and fat lost, give yourself a pat in the back or buy yourself a small present. You deserve it after all the hard work you’ve done.
Bodybuilding may be an extreme journey to embark on. The right amount of determination and a positive bodybuilding mindset will help you achieve your goals. At the end of your journey, you have not only become physically strong but also mentally and emotionally.
REFERENCES:
Barker, A. (2015). 6 Ways To Strengthen Your Mindset. Retrieved from https://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/6-ways-to-strengthen-your-mindset.html
Boghigian, S. (2016). The Mentality of a Bodybuilder. Retrieved from https://theathleticbuild.com/the-mentality-of-a-bodybuilder/
Broser, E. 9 Mental Strategies to Improve your Workouts. Retrieved from https://www.muscleandfitness.com/workouts/workout-tips/9-mindset-mantras-more-muscle
Kumar, P. (2015). The Warrior Mindset: Lift Like A Man. Retrieved from https://www.boldsky.com/health/diet-fitness/2015/cultivating-the-mindset-of-bodybuilder-083710.html
The Mindset Required To Achieve Success In Bodybuilding. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.labrada.com/blog/lean-body-challenge-transformation-contest/bodybuilding_success_mindset/