Tenacity: You may need to dig your well more than once

Many people are feeling discouraged today. They’ve put in far more effort than their peers, but haven’t seen similar results. Despite their best efforts, the outcomes leave little to impress. Shame, confusion, and perhaps discouragement cloud their thoughts. They hesitate to mingle with friends and classmates, feeling like they haven’t achieved enough. The frustration is tangible, like digging wells and finding no water. They’re on the verge of giving up, believing they’re destined to miss out on certain things in life.

But that’s not true. While this picture reflects a harsh reality, remember that we can only control what lies within our capacity: our tenacity. The number of times we must keep digging before finding water differs for each individual. That’s the irony of life.

Some individuals smoothly navigate life’s milestones, securing a spouse, university admission, passing professional exams, and landing jobs with ease. Conversely, others endure repeated hurdles, retaking exams, submitting numerous job applications, or contesting political positions multiple times before tasting success. Life’s journey, intricate and unpredictable, defies a linear trajectory.

Perhaps you’ve tried to leave your current job without success. Don’t stop trying. Keep digging, and you will eventually find water.

Years ago, as a middle manager, I desired a change in level and possibly a new job. I sent out over 250 applications in nine months, resulting in 15 interviews. None led to a position at the time, although some companies did reach out years later after I had found another job. You may have tried many businesses without success, but remember, perseverance is key. Don’t let setbacks discourage you. Keep going, and you’ll reach your goals.

You may have taken an entrance examination into the university with no results. You may be experiencing frustration from your professional exams. You must not stop trying. You may have contested several times but had no victory; don’t stop. Keep digging. You may have made several entries for a scholarship or admission but to no avail.

This is not the time to stop. Keep digging. Water is not far away. Failure is not final until you stop trying. The only person who can make you stop trying is you. No matter the number of times a striker misses his attempts at the goal post, he will not stop trying until he scores the goal and possibly wins the match.

Never compare the number of times your friend digs their well to yours. You’re digging in different soil with different tools, each endowed with unique strengths and destinies. Every individual carves their own path. Life unfolds differently for everyone.

One significant cause of frustration stems from comparing ourselves to friends and colleagues. Remember, each person is unique and possesses individual strengths and challenges. Even twins navigate their journeys differently, facing distinct scenarios and obstacles.

Commit to unwavering resolve and tenacity in the face of daunting challenges. Keep digging your own well, even if it takes many attempts to find water. This message applies to various aspects of life, including career, finance, politics, business, marriage, and projects.

Never give up. Ultimately, life isn’t defined by what happens to you, but by what you make of it.