Persistence is No 1.

Speak to many a successful entrepreneur, and they’ll tell you it takes a lot to succeed. However, most success stories are remembered from their “point of breakthrough” onwards. We selectively ignore all they had to go through to achieve, for whatever reason, as if that part of the story is of less significance. The law of averages will always do it’s thing, and of course it comes easy for some, call it fortune, call it destiny. Still the majority of world renowned successful entrepreneurs, sportsmen, leaders, athletes, entertainers and achievers had to overcome varying obstacles on their way to success. Going through the stories, from repeated failure in the case of Abraham Lincoln, to ill health as faced by Lance Armstrong; anyone who honestly believes in living their dreams one day must understand these journeys and feel due respect.

I always try to look at these difficulties with a pair of “present moment” goggles. We tend to view other people’s issues objectively, which is only natural, but try and capture this feeling for a moment, as it it was you: Your profession/ career is going great. The future looks bright and you’ve got big plans. Then, on a normal day (much like this one), you feel a funny pain (the likes of which you have probably felt before), you get examined and the doc says slams you with the mind numbing news of cancer in three vital body parts.

Now slow your thoughts for a minute.

Imagine that moment when you’re sat across from the doctor, looking into his eyes and your hear those words, and your mind has quickly worked out that this is not a joke. Where are your thoughts? How low would that moment feel? Most importantly, do you really think you have what it takes to resist all the urges to give way; and to stand and fight, knowing this is a battle you are as likely to lose as you are to win? Not only did Lance survive the extensive spread of cancerous tissues through his testicles, brain and lungs (talk about vital organs!), but he bounced back into the game and won 7 Tour de France titles. That my friends is sheer belief, determination and persistence.

There are numerous such stories, but most are as inspirational and present a hypothetical and bench mark challenge for all entrepreneurs. If you think you deserve the freedom, you best be prepared for your own customised 500 yards of prison sewage (Shawshank Redemption). And don’t forget the 19 year, rock hammer dig, prerequisite either.

My hyperactive mind is in constant analysis and I have pondered on the question for a while now - “if there one key thing to achieving your dreams, what is it?” Ladies and gents, while so many other factors are important and pivotal, I am convinced that persistence is No 1.

What is your view?