Many challenges, whether in business, fitness, or personal development, can seem insurmountable at first. The odds often feel stacked against us, and the journey can feel like an uphill climb with no clear end in sight. When I first started WellWise, I frequently felt like I was climbing a mountain alone. The skills I needed to acquire seemed endless, and the rate at which I had to learn them was overwhelming. However, these experiences taught me the critical role perseverance plays in achieving optimal wellbeing and success.
Perseverance: A Cornerstone of Wellbeing
Perseverance is not just a trait that contributes to success; it is also a fundamental aspect of overall wellbeing. The relationship between perseverance and wellbeing is bidirectional: perseverance enhances wellbeing, and a strong sense of wellbeing can bolster perseverance. Here’s how:
Building Resilience: Perseverance cultivates resilience. Facing and overcoming obstacles reinforces our ability to handle future challenges. This resilience is crucial for mental health, providing a buffer against stress and anxiety. According to Angela Duckworth, author of Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance,
“grit” (a combination of passion and perseverance) is a stronger predictor of success than talent.
Sense of Accomplishment: Persevering through difficulties provides a profound sense of accomplishment. Each small victory builds confidence and motivates us to keep going. This is evident in the Plank Challenge I’m currently taking part in —each additional second of pain is a triumph that fuels further effort. However, the path isn’t linear and we must learn to acknowledge that mistakes, underperformance, and dissapointment are part of the perserverence journey.
Personal Growth: Through perseverance, we learn and grow. The challenges we face force us to develop new skills and insights, which enhances our personal and professional development. The journey of building WellWise required me to step out of my comfort zone and acquire expertise in areas I had never explored before.
Long-term Wellbeing: Achieving long-term goals through perseverance can lead to sustained wellbeing. The satisfaction of reaching a challenging goal contributes to long-term happiness and fulfillment. A study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that
individuals who persistently pursue meaningful goals report higher levels of life satisfaction.
Tips for Developing Perseverance
For working professionals striving to achieve their career and lifestyle goals, developing perseverance is key. Here are some strategies to help you stay the course:
Set Clear Goals: Having well-defined goals gives you a clear direction and purpose. Break down your larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks. This makes the overall challenge less daunting and provides frequent opportunities for accomplishment.
Maintain a Positive Mindset: Focus on the progress you’ve made rather than the setbacks. Celebrate small victories and use them as motivation to keep going. Positive self-talk can be a powerful tool in maintaining perseverance.
Build a Support Network: Surround yourself with supportive people who encourage you and hold you accountable. Sharing your goals with others can provide motivation and make the journey less lonely. From personal experience, this is where the boosters come from when the going gets REALLY tough!
Be Patient and Kind to Yourself: Understand that progress is often slow and non-linear. Be patient with yourself and recognize that setbacks are part of the process. Treat yourself with the same kindness and encouragement you would offer a friend.
Embrace Flexibility: Sometimes, the path to your goal may need adjustment. Be flexible and willing to adapt your approach if necessary. This doesn’t mean giving up; it means finding the best way to reach your goal.
Practice Self-Care: Taking care of your physical and mental health is crucial. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and relaxation techniques can help manage stress and maintain the energy needed to persevere.
For working professionals, embracing perseverance can lead to significant achievements and a more fulfilling life. Even if you miss those (probably unrealistic) goals the first time, you don’t fail if you just keep going. It might take you longer than you first expected.