Endurance is key to success

Try something eight times before you give up.

Gretchen Rubin

author of The Happiness Project

Endurance is a game not for quitters but strong folks, who are determined to pursue visions and get results. Many a youth start up ventures and their wildest thoughts tell them, that it might not be successful. Sleepless nights they take, wondering how to go about the situation, but understanding that all is in control is important to keep up with the times. Frustration may be a part of the game, but it does not completely ail one’s capability.

One day a little boy was trying to hammer nails into a big tree stump. He was getting really frustrated when his preschool teacher said, “You know Johnny, it takes at least 23 tries before the nail will go in.” Johnny didn't know how many 23 would be, but he knew it was a big number. So, instead of feeling like a failure, Johnny’s expectations changed. It was okay not to be successful on the first, second or third attempt. He tried different ways of holding the nail and the hammer and eventually it worked. He experienced success, learned about realistic expectations and practiced perseverance.

You have probably shared that sense of frustration when things didn't work out the way you had hoped the first or second time you tried. What if you changed your expectations and persisted? Maybe the next time you try the timing will be right. Maybe you’ll do something a bit differently that will change the outcome. Perhaps a different person will answer the phone and give you better information. Whatever it is you want or need, take a deep breath, smile and try again with confidence and a positive attitude. Your persistence can pay off with success.