What is Persistence?

written by Kate H.

Stay strong until then end! Don’t give up now! Keep pushing! You hear these words of encouragement from teachers, parents, and bosses when it comes to the end of a school year or overall busy time. What concept strings these phrases together? Persistence. But what does it mean to be persistent?

When I asked myself this question, I came to the conclusion that to be persistent means to be strong-willed and refuse to give up or give in. Likewise, google’s definition of persistence states that it is a firm or obstinate continuance in a course of action in spite of difficulty or opposition.

To me, this definition of persistence leaves out two other important factors in successful perseverance: faith and attitude.

Although these are not mentioned in the official definition I feel that you cannot persevere without them.

We all face challenges, tests, and overwhelming times, but it is our faith that helps us through those times. When we know and believe there is something greater waiting for us at the end of the week or month or year, it is easier to push through and continue to strive to reach our goals. Thinking in this way also requires a positive attitude. It is too easy to become consumed with negative thoughts and dwell on our shortcomings, list of things to do, or ongoing conflicts in relationships but when we learn to think positively it becomes easier and easier to persist through any tough times and keep striving for something better. My grandpa always says, “Attitude is everything. You may not be able to change everything in a bad situation, but something you can always change is your attitude.”

As we near the end of this school year, I encourage you to find your faith, work to achieve a more positive attitude in your day to day life, and persist in all of your goals. You can do it!