Over the years, working in the business world, particularly in the spine market, I’ve faced my fair share of challenges, and I’ve also seen others navigate their struggles. One thing I’ve observed is how difficult it is for most people to use their intelligence effectively when dealing with frustrations and problems.
In today’s article, I want to share my reflections on the importance of managing mental resources effectively when facing daily disappointments and challenges. I’ve seen highly intelligent people respond to problems and frustrations in ways that, frankly, are neither smart nor productive—sometimes even clumsy and harsh. Why does this happen? Isn’t intelligence supposed to be enough to help us tackle and overcome the challenges of everyday life?
Even the smartest individuals can lose their way when excessive emotionality or unchecked ego comes into play. Many have missed out on opportunities for growth and advancement—not because they lacked talent or intelligence, but because they couldn’t control their temper or emotions.
But what, then, are emotions and ego for? In 1995, Pirelli released a tire advertisement with a slogan that still resonates deeply with me: “Power is nothing without control !” (Here’s the ad for reference.) What are emotions and ego, if not power? They are where motivation, inspiration, and greatness reside. They are pure power. But without control, they lead us to disaster.
Intelligence, emotions, and self-esteem form the perfect machine—if we know how to operate it. But not emotions tied to fear or feelings of inferiority, nor an ego that makes us see ourselves as superior to others. The positive emotion we need is COURAGE. It’s the one that must arise when we face a challenge or a difficult situation. Courage gives us the strength and determination to move forward, even when things are tough.
The mind is our compass. It helps us make rational decisions and chart a clear path toward where we want to go. What do I want to do? How should I do it? Where do I want to go? What steps should I take? The mind is the tool we use to analyze situations, weigh risks, and think through the consequences of our actions.
Courage, on the other hand, is power under control, even when we don’t have all the answers. It’s the controlled energy that pushes us forward, especially in the face of uncertainty. Courage keeps us moving when things don’t go as planned and helps us remain persistent in the face of adversity. Courage is not the absence of fear but the ability to act despite it.
Alongside calmness, courage enables us to make firm and rational decisions, even in moments of high pressure. Controlling our emotions does not mean suppressing them; it means channeling them toward a purpose that reflects our best selves.
Each of us is the pilot of our destiny! Do you take control of the situation by facing problems with courage, determination, and intelligence, or do you let yourself be carried away by anger, fear, or frustration? As the philosopher Aristotle once said, “We are what we repeatedly do; therefore, excellence is not an act, but a habit.” Let’s build the habit of transforming negative emotions into courage. This will allow us to use our intelligence to its fullest potential, achieving better results and greater success.
When the mind and courage come together, something powerful happens: Power with Control!
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