1. characterized by a practical, unsentimental attitude or point of view.
2. strong-willed; vigorous; not easily swayed.
The Free Dictionary
“Tough-minded” refers to a philosophy or approach that emphasizes rationality, objectivity, and a willingness to face difficult truths, even if they are uncomfortable. Here are some key points associated with this philosophy:
Rationality: Tough-minded individuals value reason and logic over emotions and intuition. They strive to think critically and objectively, weighing evidence and considering multiple perspectives before coming to a conclusion.
Realism: Tough-minded individuals accept reality as it is, rather than how they wish it to be. They are willing to face difficult truths and acknowledge harsh realities, even if they are uncomfortable or unpopular.
Independence: Tough-minded individuals are independent thinkers who do not blindly follow the opinions of others. They are willing to question authority and challenge conventional wisdom if they believe it is necessary.
Resilience: Tough-minded individuals are resilient in the face of adversity. They do not let setbacks or failures defeat them, but instead use these experiences as opportunities to learn and grow.
Determination: Tough-minded individuals are determined to achieve their goals, even in the face of obstacles or opposition. They have a strong sense of purpose and are willing to work hard to achieve their objectives.
Overall, the tough-minded approach emphasizes a commitment to rationality, objectivity, and resilience in the pursuit of truth and personal growth.
“Tough-minded” is a concept that can have different interpretations depending on the context in which it is used. Here are some key points that are often associated with the term “tough-minded”:
Rationality and Critical Thinking: Being tough-minded often implies being rational and possessing critical thinking skills. It means being able to objectively analyze situations, evaluate evidence, and make logical decisions based on facts rather than emotions or biases.
Resilience and Mental Strength: Tough-mindedness is often associated with resilience and mental strength. It means being able to withstand challenges, setbacks, and adversity without giving up or being easily discouraged. It involves having a strong mindset and emotional resilience to face difficulties and persevere in the face of obstacles.
Realism and Practicality: Being tough-minded often involves a realistic and practical approach to problem-solving. It means being grounded in reality and dealing with situations as they are, rather than wishful thinking or denial. Tough-minded individuals tend to focus on practical solutions and take a pragmatic approach to dealing with challenges.
Independence and Self-Sufficiency: Tough-mindedness often implies being independent and self-sufficient. It means being able to rely on oneself, take ownership of one’s actions and decisions, and not being overly dependent on others for validation or support. Tough-minded individuals are often self-reliant and have a sense of autonomy.
Assertiveness and Confidence: Being tough-minded often involves assertiveness and confidence in one’s own abilities. It means being able to express oneself clearly, assert one’s boundaries, and stand up for one’s beliefs and values. Tough-minded individuals tend to have a strong sense of self-confidence and assertiveness in their interactions with others.
Adaptability and Flexibility: Tough-mindedness often involves adaptability and flexibility in the face of change or uncertainty. It means being able to adjust and adapt to new situations, challenges, and perspectives without being rigid or resistant to change. Tough-minded individuals are often open-minded and willing to consider different viewpoints.
High Standards and Accountability: Being tough-minded often implies setting high standards for oneself and holding oneself accountable to them. It means taking responsibility for one’s actions and decisions, and striving for excellence in what one does. Tough-minded individuals tend to have a strong sense of personal accountability and a drive for self-improvement.
It’s important to note that the concept of “tough-minded” can have different connotations and interpretations depending on the context and perspective. It can be seen as a positive trait associated with resilience, rationality, and self-reliance, or it can be seen as a negative trait associated with stubbornness, rigidity, or lack of empathy. As with any concept, it’s important to consider its nuances and context when interpreting and applying it.
