We are all aware that success necessitates hard work and dedication. However, there is another factor that is largely overlooked: mental and emotional resilience. It comes more naturally to some than others, as with most positive attributes, but anyone can strive to create it.

To develop fortitude, you must be willing to investigate how you live your life in order to determine what you need to work on and what you need to let go of.

Here are just a few of the most common things that hold people back from doing what they want to do and living their best lives.

Being envious

If you are spending more time looking at someone else’s lives and counting their blessings instead of focusing on your own, you are going to be holding yourself back straight away. Instead of looking at how great their life is, look at the positives of your own life and the steps that you can take to make it even better. Perhaps you could go back to school – Stephen Troese Jr. has great tips on his blog for those going back to education.

Striving for perfection

While trying to achieve our very best is admirable, perfection is difficult to achieve, and striving to reach it can actually hold us back. Ignore those voices in your head telling you that it is not good enough. 

Comparing yourself to others

People who are successful do not compare themselves to others. They are well aware that it is a waste of time and effort because you are your own person. Only compare yourself to where you have come from and where you want to go.

Pointing the finger of blame

Our lives, our achievements, and our accomplishments are all products of our own efforts, so blaming others when things don't go as planned is not going to get you very far. Rather than blaming others, spend your time and energy resolving the issue. Blame is simply a lazy way of explaining failures and mistakes.

Doubting yourself

Whenever you doubt your ability to go further, remember how far you have come and everything you have faced so far. Do not let self-doubt cloud your mind back; nothing is more successful at preventing you from moving on in life and anchoring you down. 

Fear of trying something new

If you are afraid of failing, you are probably afraid to act. Fear is simply your mind's way of telling you that there is something important for you to overcome, so don't let it get in the way of your success. Risks and hazards exist, but fear is an option. If you can surmount it, you will be able to move forward stronger, wiser, and savvier.

Being distracted easily

Distraction is a constant temptation that is only a few steps or clicks away. However, if you want to succeed, you must ignore your distractions while feeding your focus. Instead of focusing on the fleeting enjoyments, discover the deep sense of satisfaction from consistent action and getting things done. Don't let the noise of the world drown out the voice of your own success.