PERSERVERENCE is often required to bring things to fruition, meaning it takes patience, hard work and waiting. We’re not good at this – being used to instant gratification. We want things quickly and become impatient with the process. But I’m seeing how necessary perseverance is if you want something important.
My friend, Dr. Kinga Mnich, is a great example of perseverance. She’s been working to establish her brand, #zivavoices, and waiting 8 years for a green card to work and launch her business. She had a break this week – Lexington Forum gave her a meaningful award – “One To Watch” for future leaders. And she’s hopeful about the green card. The wait is hard, but worth it.
When is perseverance worth the wait or just folly? Here are some thoughts.
YOUR PURPOSE AND IDENTITY ARE WRAPPED UP IN IT
Watching Kinga pour herself into her work, because it’s so meaningful, despite no pay or promise of what’s to come, has been inspiring. She has a vision; she knows what she wants to accomplish. I watch Lee do the same with his music. In an industry guided by “likes”, not always quality and experience, his passion and commitment to his purpose is not to be detoured. That’s when you know what you do is important!
CHANGE IS NEEDED AND IT’S A LONG GAME
I have been involved in many change processes in the mental health field – it’s always a long game. I’ve worked to create programs and legislation to reduce the incarceration of people with mental health issues for over 20 years. I’ve helped create huge change in KY and fostered change in many other states. Now I see things going backwards. Perseverance is needed for this hard, very long game that’s absolutely essential for change.
SOMETHING IMPORTANT DOESN’T ALWAYS COME EASY
If what you want is important to you, then know it doesn’t always come easy. There is training, work, long hours and no certainty of success. If it meets your purpose, represents a change for you or something you are championing and it serves the greater good of you and others, it is not folly. The world needs you!
How does this speak to you? Reach out if you’d like to explore it.
