Will to Persevere

"The will to persevere is often the difference between failure and success."  ~David Sarnoff 

When you hear the word persistence, what do you think of? For me, I like the way Josh Shipp describes it. He says, "Perseverance is stubbornness with a purpose." At first read, that is funny, right? But it also proves a valuable point. That sometimes what one person sees as a negative trait, another can see as a great quality.

I remember when I was a school counselor and I'd help students with their scholarship applications. Often they were asked to describe themselves. So I'd give them the directive to make a list of their qualities. Many struggled and they'd say things like, my parents think I'm stubborn, my friends think I'm bossy, my teachers think I'm…

As for myself personally, I've been called stubborn on more than one occasion too. So now I know, that just means I'm persistent. 😉 Which, in the right context, can be a great quality. Being stubborn from an egocentric place is not a great thing, but being persistent and persevering, certainly is.  

To be honest, I would much rather be “stubborn with a purpose” than feel the regret of giving up on a dream or goal too soon. What about you? Have there been times in your life when you look back and regrettably realize that had you stayed with something, you would have succeeded? Or maybe you have dreams and goals for yourself that you aren’t ready to give up on just yet, even if they seem difficult.

If you look up persevere in the dictionary, here's what it'd say: to persist in anything undertaken; maintain a purpose in spite of difficulty, obstacles or discouragement; continue steadfastly.

I love this definition so much that I almost used it as this week's quote because I think it's actually quite empowering. I mean think about it, "Maintain a purpose in spite of difficulty." that statement alone is so powerful. It speaks volumes. And really, if we didn't persevere in life, where would we be?

Unfortunately all too often, people come up against road blocks that stop them from moving towards their goals. But don't let those pitfalls stop you. They are nothing more than detours. They may take you on a different path for a while. But if you really want something, no reason - no excuse, can stop you, especially if you persevere, because more often than not, that is the difference between failure and success.

When roadblocks take you on a detour of life, remember that they cannot keep you from reaching your dreams. If you choose to persevere, you can get back on track! So this week, think about one goal you've had for yourself, even if it was a New Year's Resolution (Can you believe half the year is over already?) or a dream from your past, whatever the case, decide now that you will reach that goal. Then don't hold back. Start today to work toward your goal.

The first step? Sign up for a Strategy Session so I can help you create a plan for success and be empowered to never give up!

***Book your Strategy Session to kickstart your goals and dreams HERE!