Physical vs. Emotional Strength

Of the two, which do you think is more valuable and thus more difficult to attain?

Which do we tend to place greater emphasis on? And don’t just think of physical strength in the sense of muscle mass accrued at the gym but of the entire philosophy of effort and achievement.

Here are some examples of emotional strength.

1. Showing up for a friend (or even stranger) who is having difficulty of some kind. Not just saying, “it will all work out” or “this too shall pass” or avoiding the situation outright. But really showing up, letting that person know you care and see them. 

2. Speaking up in a group of people when you have something to say. Sound too simple? How often do you hit mute and self censor around others (even one-to-one)?

3. Attending a loved one’s going away party, not canceling at the last minute because you might have to be present for a “hallmark moment.”

Emotional strength has to do with presence. Showing up as your Self, as you are. 

It's more difficult to attain than physical strength because of the fear associated with showing up, vulnerability. It’s paralyzing and can take the might of an Olympian to push past it. (For inspiration on the topic, see the chapter on 'The Resistance' in this book by Seth Godin.)

It’s also quite possible for an Olympian to fail at any of the above examples.