POW #2: PERSEVERE

What's your SUPERPOWER that helps you OVERCOME Challenges?

Have you ever reached a moment where you found it difficult to move forward, yet felt a strong inner tug to not give up? The pull of perseverance is like a tugboat steering a ship to dock; it guides you along your journey. Despite the ship being heavily laden and difficult to manoeuvre, this small tugboat can direct it to the right location. This acts as a metaphor for life. No matter how long it takes, that inner tug will continue to guide you, and eventually, you will reach your destination.

That INNER TUG to...

• complete an assignment

• finish writing that book

• fulfil that dream

• stop procrastinating

• start that business venture

• push through fear

• stop doubting your abilities

• stop making excuses

  
  

I'm sure you can identify with your own 'inner tug' of perseverance, as it is something we all encounter. The journey is never simple, but our determination and motivation to succeed is what pushes us to complete the task at hand.

The strength of perseverance lies in confronting the challenges of a task and envisioning the success that comes with finishing it. I remember numerous assignments throughout my academic journey where I felt drained trying to write that last paragraph, or when the word count exceeded the limit, and I wrestled with maintaining grammatical accuracy.

I vividly remember completing my first half marathon at the age of 32. I was on a fitness high and decided to challenge myself with a 21km walk. It was during the Auckland Marathon, where participants could walk or run over the Auckland Harbour Bridge. I had trained for this event, so I felt confident about my ability to finish. What I didn't anticipate was how difficult the last 5km would be, as my energy was depleted and all I wanted was to see the finish line! I recall many runners and walkers overtaking me, and a deep, disappointing feeling in my gut that I might not make it and could end up last. Emotions surged, and I was desperate to cross that finish line. Every passing walker or runner encouraged me with words like you got this and keep going, which became my motivation to continue. It was the encouragement from fellow participants that inspired me to persevere and not give up.

When I saw the finish line and my family cheering me on, the feelings I had 5kms back disappeared, and replaced with the joy of accomplishing something I once thought was impossible. When you truly grasp and feel the Power of Perseverance, it becomes an undeniable force, particularly when you can see the achievement at the end.

PAUSE & REFLECT 

What are you experiencing today that requires the Power of Perseverance to overcome?

Share your comments below.