Last week we discussed Decision Making.
This week we discuss Persistence, Napoleon Hill’s Eighth Characteristic of Successful People.
Being persistent and consistent, over a long enough period of time, can lead anyone to success.
Ask any successful college graduate, actor, writer, entrepreneur or business owner about their path and you are sure to hear stories of challenges, obstacles and setbacks that were overcome because they refused to give up; this is the power of persistence.
Persistence is a state of mind, so it can be cultivated. Like all states of mind, persistence is based upon definite causes, including:
- Definiteness of Purpose – Knowing what you want
- Desire – An voracious urge to complete your purpose
- Self-Reliance – Belief in yourself and your ability
- Definiteness of Plans – Organized plans
- Accurate Knowledge – Knowing that your plans are solid
- Cooperation – Understanding, support and encouragement from others
- Willpower – Determination and resolve to accomplish your purpose
- Habit – Repetition that develops into a defined routine
All thirteen characteristics of successful people are required to achieve massive success and they all must be applied with persistence.
Unfortunately, a lack of persistence is a common weakness among people. At the first sign of obstacles or challenges they give up, throw their hands in the air and bemoan their obstacles and misfortune; they are weak and lack persistence. If one does not possess persistence, one will not achieve noteworthy success at any calling. However, this weakness can be overcome by effort.
There are four simple steps that lead to the habit of persistence. They are:
- A definite purpose, backed by a burning desire for its fulfillment
- A definite plan, expressed in continuous action
- A mind closed tightly against all negative and discouraging influences, including negative suggestions of relatives, friends and acquaintances
- A friendly alliance with one or more persons who will encourage you to follow through with both plan and purpose
Be mindful, work on developing your personal habit of persistence and success will come.
Often when things get tough and you may feel there is no hope – it is at this point where, if you persist, you will start to see the first signs of success.
Stay tuned to learn more about Napoleon Hill’s success principles from Think and Grow Rich. Next week we will talk about Power of the “Master Mind”.
