The Most Essential Leadership Quality

Anyone in a leadership or management position knows that success doesn't come easily. It takes hard work, dedication, and yes, even a little luck.

But the one quality that all successful leaders share is persistence. No matter what challenges successful leaders face, they never give up. They always find a way to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.

But What Is Persistence?

Thomas Edison famously said, "I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work." This quote is often cited as a prime example of the power of persistence. But what does it really mean to be persistent? And how can you harness that power to achieve your goals?

Persistence is the quality of holding on or continuing in spite of difficulties, obstacles, or discouragement. It is the ability to persevere in the face of adversity.

People who are persistent refuse to give up. They don't let setbacks or failure deter them from their goals. They maintain their focus and continue to take actions until they achieve their desired results.

One of the reasons they manage to do this is that they are prepared. When they set out to reach their goals, they do not assume it will be easy. They expect challenges and they welcome them.

Why It Matters

Persistence is important because it helps us overcome obstacles and achieve our goals. Sometimes we think of people who are persistent as possessing a unique gift. While they do have a gift, it is one that any of us can develop.

We can acquire the attitude of persistence by deliberately fostering courage and by digging in when life presents challenges. As Bill Bradely the professional basketball player said, "Ambition is the path to success. Persistence is the vehicle you arrive in."

How Persistence Works

Recently, I have been coaching a client who is very determined and persistent in reaching her goals. Lin has always been an ambitious person and she has the attitude of persistence.

She wants to be in control of her own destiny. That's why she decided to start her own small business. She knows it is going to be hard work, but she is determined to make it happen.

Over the last six months, I have watched Lin make real progress. She has increased her sales and her customer base, an impressive accomplishment in these challenging times. Through networking, attending conferences, making calls, and being persistent, she is realizing her goals.

7 Tips for Building Your Persistence

If you find yourself giving up too easily or struggling to stick with your goals, you may need to nurture your innate sense of persistence. Here are some tips to help you:

1. Set realistic goals. Nothing is more discouraging than setting a goal you could not possibly achieve. Start with smaller practical goals and build from there, but do not shy away from a challenge. If you are certain you can meet a goal, it may be too easy and you may need to reach a little higher.
2. Make a plan. A dream is fantasy until it is backed up with action. Once you know your goals, plan how you will achieve them.
3. Break the plan into manageable steps. Think about all of the things you need to do and write them down.
4. Take small actions every day. Persistence is a daily task. By doing something towards your goals every day, you will stay more motivated.
5. Recognize every accomplishment. Each time you take a step towards your goal, congratulate yourself. We all need positive reinforcement.
6. Be prepared for setbacks. Successful leaders know there will be setbacks. They expect them and stand ready to react. When things do not go as you hoped, do something different.
7. Believe in yourself. Persistence is an inside job. Help from others can make a big difference, but persistence is fed by positive self-regard. Be mindful of the messages you tell yourself.

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