SPIRIT OF TENACITY
Updated: Apr 13, 2020
“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” ~Harriet Tubman~
Stick to it! . . . Never, never quit! . . . When the goin’ gets tough, the tough get goin’! . . . Persistence pays! . . .
These are phrases I have heard my entire life. Over the years, I have often reflected back on the first couple of years after we started our training business. Those were the days when the power and light company shut off our lights because I couldn’t afford to pay the bill, that our family now so fondly refers to as the Dark Ages. I remember back then it was challenging enough just to put food on the table, and it was during those difficult days, when I felt most like giving up, and going out to “get a real job” that I made a decision. I decided that no matter what, I was not going to let the tough times beat me. Somehow I would succeed!
I was a hard worker, but I learned that I needed to work smarter, too. I had my plans, but found that if I was to succeed, I needed a written plan so I would be ready to make the most of opportunities that come my way. I learned a written plan also served to make me more determined than ever to succeed. It’s what I call a Spirit of Tenacity– that quality of holding fast to your dreams, goals and desires, being unwilling to quit or let go or give up, no matter what.
My plans were the catalyst I needed to achieve my dreams, and as I began to visualize success in my mind’s eye, it became a reality.
I know it has been my written plans that have helped me to hang in there, reminding me why I was doing what I was doing, and keeping me from giving in to the temptation to quit during the difficult times. I encourage you to let your dreams take you far, and when the going gets rough, roll up your sleeves, grab a pencil, and start planning. This is a powerful tool to help you to be tenacious in life, whatever you set out to do.
And remember: If you are to succeed, you must press on. You must possess a Spirit of Tenacity.