Mental strength needed in difficult economic times

The same attributes that an athlete needs on the field – self-confidence, focus, motivation and the ability to deal with pressure — also is what business people need, especially to get through these tough times.

Employees, facing constant news of downsizing, budget cuts and the recession, may be able to improve their situations by becoming "corporate athletes."

There are four pillars of mental toughness: dealing with adversity, staying focused, believing in yourself and creating goals as motivation for success.