The Key To Perseverance

Definition of perseverance from a dictionary: “Persisting in or remaining constant to a purpose, idea or task in spite of obstacles”. Notice that it does not start as “Wisely persisting…” Perseverance can clearly be both a good thing and a bad thing. Remember that when you find yourself wanting to quit something, there is also a chance that quitting might be the wisest choice.

Here are three important aspects to consider.

1. Self Awareness

Notice when you look for excuses, rather than truth, are you letting fear or laziness cause you to quit or procrastinate? If honestly watching yourself is difficult, explain your reasoning to a friend. Close friends may be more likely than you to know when you are rationalising. Think about it from the other direction and you will see this can be true.

2. Costs and Benefits

To wisely persevere, you need to see the costs and benefits of what you are doing. If moving to Hollywood to become a star is going to cost you your business or family life, you have to see that clearly before you decide. An honest and good decision requires honest and good information.

3. Motivation

Once you have made a decision, and you are sure you made it for the right reasons, you have to motivate yourself. In fact,  perseverance requires that you regularly re-motivate yourself. Write goals down, do daily affirmations, and whatever else you have to do.

Habit is the most powerful secret of success. Practice watching yourself to make self-awareness a habit. Practice analysing costs and benefits objectively, and practice motivating yourself.

There are many good motivation techniques. So, if what you are doing does not work, go read up on them and try something else. That is perseverance.

Thank you kinkate for the background image https://pixabay.com/photos/jogging-run-sport-jog-sporty-race-2343558/