The Fortitude Chronicle: A Weekly Digest of Athletic Determination

Author

Colin Jonov
July 10, 2023

The Fortitude Chronicle: A Weekly Digest of Athletic Determination

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Welcome to The Fortitude Chronicle, a weekly newsletter devoted to helping you enhance mental fortitude and conquer life's challenges.

This week, we're revisiting the pivotal topic of Integrity. As individuals aspiring for excellence and authenticity in every walk of life, it's vital to understand that our true character is defined not by our actions in the public eye, but by what we do when no one is around to witness.

In this edition, we will dive into a myriad of insights, reflections, and practical strategies to help you strengthen your inner compass and live in alignment with your values, even when no one's watching. From embracing accountability to cultivating ethical self-awareness and consistency, these lessons will guide you towards not only understanding but embodying your authentic self.

Take Action: Create Your True Identity

  1. 1. Diversification of Self-Identity: Begin by recognizing that while sports may be a significant part of your life, it doesn't encapsulate your entire identity. Take time to explore other interests, hobbies, and passions outside of your sporting career. Engage in activities that make you happy and fulfilled, which can range from painting to volunteering or even learning a new language. This diversified approach will help you develop a multi-dimensional self-identity, reducing dependency on the athlete persona for self-worth and validation, while also enhancing your sport performance.

    2. Building a Support Network: Forge relationships outside the realm of your sport. While your teammates or coaches may understand the specific struggles of the game, having connections with people in different fields can provide a fresh perspective and a broader support base.

    3. Planning for the Future: Start creating a long-term plan for your life beyond sports. This could include furthering your education, developing new skills, or exploring alternate career options. Having a clear vision for your future can alleviate anxiety and provide a sense of direction. Even if you are in the prime of your sporting career, planning ahead can ensure a smoother transition when the time comes.

Who Are You When No One is Watching?

When we think of integrity, we often think of honesty and ethical behavior in public. We might consider someone who always keeps their…

medium.com/@colin.jonov10/who-are-you-when-no-one-is-watching-7063a70017c0

3 Posts This Week:

Featured:

Former NFL Offensive Lineman, Michael Oher

Michael Oher, Who Inspired Blind Side, Opens Up About Mental Health: 'I'm Still Dealing with Trauma'

Michael Oher tells PEOPLE about turning to therapy and helping others after his NFL career and The Blind Side

people.com/sports/nfl-player-michael-oher-the-blind-side-opens-up-about-mental-health

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Featured Episode:

Happiness Is an Option for You: 4 Easy Habits That Make Your Life Better Based on Research

Listen to this episode from The Mel Robbins Podcast on Spotify. In this episode, you’re going to learn the 4 happiness habits that, based on research, are scientifically proven to make you happier in 21 days.Happiness is not only possible; it is an option for you.Our guest today is one of the most respected happiness researchers in the world. Shawn Achor is the author of 4 New York Times bestsellers and has created the largest happiness training program in the world. He is here to prove to you that happiness is not only possible but also an option for you.This conversation is packed with practical and proven tools that you can put to work in your life immediately. We will also dig deep into the research that supports everything that you are about to learn.Shawn goes deeper than he has ever gone in an interview, discussing his struggle with depression and how these 4 habits have helped him climb out of it.Get out your notebook because we are drilling into decades of psychological research that will ladder up to more meaning in your life.Today you’ll learn:How to find happiness amidst pain and fearThe 4 simple habits that create more happinessWhat Shawn calls the ‘turning point’ for his struggle with depressionHow to be happy even when you’re lonely and the importance of connection and communityThe first step YOU need to take to living a happier, more meaningful lifeHappiness is not an emotion; it is a framework, and that framework is getting built today!Xo Mel In this episode you’ll learn: 2:04: What is the definition of happiness?3:12: Where can you find happiness amidst pain and fear?10:41: What happens when you become fearful that you will never be happy again?12:53: Step #1 to claiming happiness is recognition. This is why.14:05: This is YOUR starting point for living a happier life.15:49: These 4 simple habits for 21 days will change your life.17:53: What kept Shawn going: the habits that pulled him out of a depression.21:22: Reminder: Happiness is a team sport.29:24: What loneliness actually is32:37: The importance of social connection and community35:14 The story we tell ourselves is how we navigate our lives.40:35: It’s not the end of your story; the reminder I even needed45:47: Happiness is an option, not a choice.48:58: What Shawn learned in Flint, Michigan, about mindset and behavior51:52: The tools and takeaways you need to remember after this conversation Disclaimer

open.spotify.com/episode/20pIjI9bMuOo2Pf8inFJnH?si=TqxC36RgR2-ojEK7pvYwng