The Mind Is the Athlete

Amar Pandit , CFA , CFP

Amar Pandit

A respected entrepreneur with 25+ years of Experience, Amar Pandit is the Founder of several companies that are making a Happy difference in the lives of people. He is currently the Founder of Happyness Factory, a world-class online investment & goal-based financial planning platform through which he aims to help every Indian family save and invest wisely. He is very passionate about spreading financial literacy and is the author of 4 bestselling books (+ 2 more to release in 2020), 8 Sketch Books, Board Game and 700 + columns.

I was writing a post on this important idea, but then realized it’s so powerful that I just need to share it as is. Let this sink in. Reflect deeply on it.

Bill Beswick, in his book Changing Your Story, wrote, “The key transformational moment in my long career in sport—playing, teaching, coaching, and supporting performance—was when I finally understood that the mind was the athlete and the body simply the means. How you think, and therefore feel, is vital in releasing positive energy and realizing your physical abilities to the full.”

What an insight—the mind is the athlete, and the body is simply the means.

Now think about this in the context of your work. It’s not just about what you do. It’s about how you think. Your mindset is the true differentiator in how you serve your clients, grow your practice, and create a lasting impact.

Why Your Mindset Matters

In the work you do, your technical knowledge and skills are important. But they are not enough. The way you think—your mindset—shapes your behavior, decisions, and outcomes.

For example:

  • If you think in scarcity, you’ll hold back from investing in your business or taking bold steps.
  • If you think in abundance, you’ll see challenges as opportunities and build meaningful relationships with clients.
  • If you let fear of rejection dominate, you’ll hesitate to reach out to high-value clients. But with a confident mindset, you’ll seize opportunities and expand your reach.

Transforming Your Practice Through the Power of Thought

Your mindset determines the energy you bring to client meetings. It shapes the way you handle setbacks and adapt to change. It’s what allows you to stay disciplined during market turbulence and help your clients do the same.

As Beswick says, “How you think, and therefore feel, is vital in releasing positive energy.”

So, ask yourself:

  • Am I cultivating a growth mindset in my practice?
  • Am I approaching challenges with curiosity and resilience?
  • Am I allowing my thoughts to propel me forward or hold me back?

Remember, the mind is the athlete. Your practice and your clients’ success are the results of your mindset. The question is: Are you mastering your mind as carefully as you’re trying to master your craft?