Leadership goes far beyond job titles. True leadership stems from a heart focused on serving others. But in order to serve at our highest capacity, leaders must cultivate an unbreakable will. For those aspiring to lead, bolstering willpower is vital. According to leadership and mindset coach Rahul Karan Sharma, there are three core pillars to strengthen, resolve and empower future leaders.
Develop a Positive Mindset
The first key that Rahul highlights is knowing your mindset. He advises individuals to examine their thought patterns over the past week. “Were you thinking optimistically or pessimistically? Did you have a positive or negative outlook overall?” Rahul explains, “If you are thinking more pessimistically, having more doubt in your ability, that is where you will have a very negative outlook.” However, if your thoughts trended positively, you likely have cultivated a constructive mindset.
Rahul emphasizes the immense value of maintaining a positive mindset. He states, “This is very important for you to make your will very, very strong.” When your mindset is defeated and doubtful, your willpower crumbles. But by intentionally developing a positive perspective, you equip yourself with mental strength. Rahul encourages leaders to regularly self-reflect on their mindset and make changes where needed to continually renew an upbeat, empowering mental outlook.
As Rahul advises, “Look at your last week—during your entire week, what were you thinking about? Were you thinking positive or were you pessimistic about any of your tasks? When you think more about your last week’s activities, you will be able to see a pattern.” Keeping your mindset in check is vital for strengthening your will.
Choose Your Company Carefully
In addition to monitoring your mindset, Rahul highlights the immense impact of your inner circle. He explains that the people you interact with daily play a massive role in shaping your willpower. For Rahul, there are certain individuals he wants to connect with regularly. Why? Because they provide an energy boost. When he talks with them, Rahul feels energized, supported, and empowered to achieve his goals.
However, he warns that there are also people who sap your energy and derail your drive. Rahul calls them “energy distractors.” He describes how these individuals constantly divert your focus to their priorities. When you finish interacting, you feel depleted rather than empowered.
Rahul advises, “You need to know who are your energy boosters and who are the people who distract energy from you—who are energy drainers for you.” While everyone has bad days, there are certain relationships that habitually zap your willpower. Minimize time with these people, and maximize time with supporters who energize you.
Surrounding yourself with positive influencers bolsters your mental strength. Rahul emphasizes, “People with whom you interact day in, day out play a very, very big role in managing your willpower.” Carefully choose your inner circle to reinforce your resolve.
Know Yourself and Your Purpose
Rahul’s third pillar for strong willpower is knowing yourself. He explains that understanding your core motivations is key. Reflect carefully: Why do you want to lead? Are you driven by titles and paychecks? Or do you want to make a lasting difference?
As Rahul states, “It is so important for us to know why we do what we do.” When your leadership stems from selfless purpose, you have a clear vision propelling you forward. Your “why” gives you unwavering perseverance.
Rahul illustrates how self-awareness directly strengthens your willpower: “If you know why you do what you do, you will have a very clear picture in your mind of how you want to take things to the next level.” Know your passions and values. Let your deepest motivations fuel your resolve.
He also advises examining your personality and preferences. For example, if you love adventure, new challenges will hardly phase you. However, if you dislike the unknown, new projects may overwhelm you. Rahul encourages, “Know yourself, and you will see a difference in your own willpower.” Make self-discovery a regular habit to continually build your mental fortitude.
To learn more about Rahul Karan Sharma and his approach, check out his LinkedIn profile.
