The Power of Persistence

Stan Hibbs, Ph.D.

Are you discouraged? Is college harder than you thought? Is that weight-loss program not going well? Did you start your business with enthusiasm, but the recession has you doubting.

Try this exercise: Imagine that you are talking to your best friend, someone you really admire. Your friend is discouraged but you know she can do it. What would she need to hear? Would you remember past successes? Would you give her a gentle push? Would you assure her of your friendship, even if she fails?

Write down what you would say to her and then say those things to yourself. Be as encouraging to yourself, as you would be to your best friend!

The closer I get to my goal, the more my negative self-talk starts. I just ignore it and move on. So can you!

Winston Churchill, the greatest orator of the 20^th century, was asked to speak at a school graduation ceremony. This was his entire address:

“Never give up.

Never give up.

Never, never, never give up!”

As our nation faces the challenges ahead, we all need to be reminded of the power of persistence.