I find posts like this very annoying. As swombat points out, the claim that you should "watch your thoughts" leaves one wondering: how do I do that? The answer I assume I would get, were I to ask the author this question, is: "Just do it!" Of course, the author has conveniently left out details regarding what type of support he received from family/friends/coaches.

Anyway, that's exactly why this type of crap isn't useful.

To become excellent at a contingent skill (e.g. swimming, chess, math) you must surround yourself with excellent, honest people who care about you.

To become excellent at a trascendental skill (e.g. "strength," "bravery") you must isolate yourself and go very deep.

There is no other way.