Perseverance

perseverance

Definition courtesy of Dictionary.com

I have, regarding approximately 98% of the elements in my life*, a super-human sense of stick-to-it-iveness. It’s a lethal combination of passion, attention to detail, pride, perfectionism, strong work ethic, and stubbornness. When I decide to do something, I put on my game face, focus on the goal, and get to work. I’m often the last one standing after others have long given up. Usually, I don’t allow setbacks to get me down. (That’s my sense of denial stepping in, I think!)

On Monday afternoon, I had a little bump in the road with a current project, and although I did my best to play it off and move on, I let it get into my head. Yesterday, I was a hot mess. I was on the verge of tears all day long. I let the fear of failure ooze its way into the “go-get-’em” part of my brain. I was running through all of the negative “What ifs?” instead of focusing on the positive ones like I usually do.

Finally, at the end of the day, relief came in the form of encouragement from Jim and my sister. I felt much better, and it was time to start using that strike command again.

What if I fail?
What if I succeed?

What if I have to start all over again?
What if that finally gets it done?

What if it takes a really long time?
What if it doesn’t?

That’s more like it.
That’s more like ME.

So, today? I’m back. Onward and upward.

*Unfortunately this sense doesn’t translate when it comes to my diet, but that’s another post for another day.

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©2010 Suburban Scrawl

12 Comments

  • NukeDad

    There you go! Keeping your head in the game is usually 1/2 the battle. Unlike most of us, you were born with a very strong "self-correcting" gene. Looks like you are using it wisely. Good luck!

  • Stacey @Real World Mom

    I'm so glad you were able to break out of that negative spin! Kudos to hubby and sis for helping! 🙂

    Self talk can have such a huge impact on our mental and physical health. Sometimes we need a gentle reminder (or a kick in the butt), to get back on the right track.

    I'm usually an optimist and have the same "bulldog" mentality that you do about projects. Once in a while, I have to force myself to admit I'm *not* perfect, and I'm going to have a setback once in a while.

    Lots of luck with this project, and keep your chin up! 🙂

  • Anonymous

    Once in a great while you can get in a funk, but it is not very often. I'm glad things took a turn around.
    You always held your ground till the job or what ever you where doing was done. It is not you to get down keep your chin up and don't stop pushing.

    When life gives you lemons just make some lemonade.

    Love
    Grandma W

  • Mags

    Ah…the "What if I succeed" one gets me every now and then. I'm glad you're back on track!!

  • SoccerMom

    Sounds like your a kickin ass and takin names kinda gal.

    Glad to see you hung in there.

  • Melissa

    Sounds like you need to start renting Jim and Jules out on the side for a little extra income.

    I'm glad that while you had a lousy day you bounced back quickly! It's all in the bounce!

  • nycgirl0501

    It's post like these why I admire you so much. You can do anything your heart desires. I believe in you 🙂

  • Heather

    You WILL get there. You're the only person I know with so much dedication and straight up hard work. You will get it. I know you will.
    xo

  • Charlie on the PA Turnpike

    A buddy of mine who endured/is enduring more than 10x what any man ought to in his life taught me something this week.

    The word 'impossible' can also be read as 'I'm possible'.

    Hoping this helps you as much as it has me.