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The reality is success rarely shows up.
It is lured and attracted day by day,
By the right actions, thinking, and heart.
Doug Firebaugh
Starting something new is always exciting. The initial spark of enthusiasm fuels us, and the support from others can be a powerful motivator. However, as the days turn into weeks and the initial excitement wanes, the real challenge begins. The journey towards success often becomes a daily grind, requiring consistent effort and resilience. This is where perseverance comes into play.
Perseverance is the steadfastness in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success. It is the inner drive that keeps us moving forward even when external encouragement fades. We must cultivate the strength to push through the tough times and remain committed to our goals; to what we want to achieve.
There are many times that I’ve felt like giving in, that I could no longer do what I need to do. A source of encouragement that has always inspired me to persevere, and not give in, is this poem credited to both John Greenleaf Whittier (1807-1892) and Edgar Albert Guest (1881 –1959):
When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,
When the road you’re trudging seems all uphill,
When the funds are low and the debts are high,
And you want to smile, but you have to sigh.
When care is pressing you down a bit,
Rest, if you must, but don’t you quit.
Life is queer with its twists and turns,
As every one of us sometimes learns,
And many a failure turns about,
When he might have won had he stuck it out;
Don’t give up though the pace seems slow—
You may succeed with another blow.
Often the goal is nearer
Than it seems to a faint and faltering man,
Often the struggler has given up,
When he might have captured the victor’s cup,
And he learned too late when the night slipped down,
How close he was to the golden crown.
Success is failure turned inside out—
The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,
And you never can tell how close you are,
It may be near when it seems so far,
So, stick to the fight when you’re hardest hit—
It’s when things seem worst that you must not quit.
When progress is slow, when the going gets tough, and obstacles seem insurmountable it is easy to become disheartened and discouraged. The poem reminds me to persevere, to keep going, and not give in or quit. It tells me that I’m almost there and that in these moments of greatest challenge I am close to achieving my goals.
Perseverance is not about never facing difficulties; it’s about not letting those difficulties stop you. Keep moving forward, one step at a time, and you’ll find success closer than you think. Consider the following strategies for persevering one day at a time:
- Set Clear Goals: Break down larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks. This makes the process less overwhelming and offers a sense of accomplishment with each completed step.
- Create a Routine: Establish a daily routine that incorporates time for working on your goals as consistency is key to maintaining momentum.
- Stay Positive: Focus on the progress already made rather than the distance still to go and celebrate the small victories to keep your spirits high.
- Seek Support: Reach out for support when needed. Whether it’s friends, family, or a mentor, having a support system provides encouragement and accountability.
- Reflect and Adjust: Regularly review progress made. Be open and flexible in adjusting and finding the way through challenges more effectively.
If you find yourself struggling to persevere, know that you are not alone. Everyone faces challenges, and seeking help can make a significant difference. I’m here to support you on your journey. Connect with me at betty@bettyfranklin.com for personalized coaching, support, and encouragement.
