Regardless of job title or type of work, mental toughness is an important asset in the workplace. However, some people may feel they don’t have the capacity to present this type of strength on the job. Often that’s due to low self-confidence. When re-entering the workforce following a cancer diagnosis — whether by returning to an existing job or starting a new one — fears and concerns can arise that might affect your perception of self-worth and your ability to do good work.

A recent article in The Muse features a list of nine ways to build your mental toughness so that you are able to do your best and increase your workplace confidence.

A few key suggestions:

1. Always Assume You Are in Complete Control: The idea is to not equate success with luck. While some people may appear to “have all the luck,” it’s important to remember that they likely did not wait for that luck to come around; instead, they worked hard to achieve it. Although you can’t control luck, you can control what you do for yourself in order to succeed.
2. See the Past As Valuable Training and Nothing More: This is especially important for cancer patients and survivors. As many can attest, going through cancer can have a deep impact on perspective. Such experiences can be valuable as an opportunity to learn something new — including about yourself — but shouldn’t necessarily be viewed as a benchmark. It’s important to remember that the past is just training; it doesn’t completely define who you are and what you are capable of.
3. Put Aside Things You Have No Ability to Impact: Don’t waste energy and thought on things that you cannot control. Rather, focus on the things that you can influence and you will be able to more positively effect change.

Check out our article on your mindset after cancer for more tips on handling cancer in the workplace and becoming a confident employee.

Additionally, our 2016 National Conference on Work & Cancer, being held on June 17 in New York City, will feature a session devoted to body confidence and self-confidence on the job. If you’re interested in attending this and the other sessions being presented as part of this free, daylong event, register online now!