By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills
I was introduced to tenacity in middle school. We had a week of learning about tenacious people and how they were more than determined or stubborn, but persistent in their goals. The teacher designed the lessons to show the value of staying on task and shaking off negativity.
Now, I look around me at the number of those who give up on their dreams, abandon lifelong goals, and walk away from that which gave them purpose. The reason? Too hard. Costs too much. I’m young, and this “thing” is eating up my day-to-day life. Or I’m old, and this “thing” hasn’t happened yet, so why should I continue?
Some pursuits can be foolish, inappropriate, dangerous, and/or illegal. I’m referring to a purposeful endeavor that is good for us and the world. Tenacious people learn how to be tough mentally and emotionally.
What are 15 ways we can practice tenacity in our lives?
1. Define what tenacious means to you. Be specific according to your personality.
2. Pray for wisdom and guidance. Ask God if the dream or goal is a part of God’s plan for you.
3. Know the dream or goal. None of this “I think it’s . . . ”
4. Determine if the objective is beneficial to you and others.
5. Record the chronological steps needed to ensure success.
6. Check off what has been completed.
7. Choose a timeline of completion.
8. Eliminate those habits that push your dream or goal aside. That means getting rid of negative thinking.
9. Ask a trusted person to keep you accountable
10. Keep a journal of progress and include defeats.
11. Set aside time regularly to analyze the preparations made to this point. Make changes if necessary.
12. View the past as learning and growth.
13. Employ a positive attitude.
14. Encourage others with their dreams and goals.
15. Thank God for His provision and blessings.
When we realize that tenacity is missing in pursuing our dreams and goals, we can choose to step away or move forward. Which will you choose?
Comments 14
DiAnn – thank you for such a great template! This is timely encouragement.
Pamela, You are so welcome!
Well goodness, this is a timely reminder. Thanks for the encouraging words. 🙂
Jessie, I’m glad you found the info of value! I appreciate you.
You had a brilliant teacher. I’m so glad you stuck to your dreams and goals. Your books are wonderful. Blessings to you and your loved ones!
Thank you, Laura, for your kind words. I appreciate your reading my books!
Tenacity–I was four years old when I declared someday I would write books like the ones I carried from the bookmobile up a mile-long gravel road to my mountain-side home. I “read” them to the point I had memorized them a month later when I returned them and checked out more. Through the years,I spent untold hours staring at blank paper because I had no words. Fast forward to age 52 when God finally decided he could trust me to write stories. He’s kept the words coming. Yes, tenacity is a word to live by.
Peggy, I love that story! I can see a little girl holding on to her book like a treasure.
Always move forward!
I love your philosophy! Thank you.
A long-held belief is that, “Tenacity comes from a strong will; stubbornness comes from a strong won’t.” Such a great post for aspiring writers and creatives Ms. DiAnn. Let us not tire in doing good (Galatians 6:9) ma’am.
J.D., I’ve never heard that saying, but it’s one I won’t ever forget! Thank you.
Oh goodness, DiAnn! Tenacity/persistence is mandatory if our dreams will ever come to fruition. Multiple times I wanted to give up, but I couldn’t. Whenever I tossed my hands in the air, they landed on the keyboard. I know I’m where God wants me. After eleven years, the publishing door finally opened. There have been many God moments throughout my journey and I’m certain there are more to come.
Loretta, I hope you have a plaque made that says: “Whenever I tossed my hands in the air, they landed on the keyboard.” You are the poster child for tenacity!