Most people think perseverance is just about working harder. But after years of building DOWN, I’ve learned it’s actually about being brave enough to ask: “Is this even working?”
I was recently featured in Entrepreneur, where I shared 6 lessons on the “perseverance mindset.” It’s not an innate skill, it’s a toolkit.
The highlight for me? Seeking “Radically Honest” Feedback. Self-doubt isn’t always the enemy; sometimes it’s a compass. I’ve found that the best way to move forward is to seek counsel from people who care more about your success than your feelings. It’s about being “refreshingly honest, funny, and raw” about the state of your startup.
My 6 Lessons for the Long Game:
- Seek Tough Love: Audit your viability with experts you trust.
- Aim High, Plan SMART: Balance ambition with achievable milestones.
- The 5-Year Horizon: Think strategically, not just daily.
- Micro-Wins: Break chaos into tasks you can finish in one sitting.
- Lean into Chaos: Don’t just tolerate uncertainty, embrace it.
- Hire for Purpose: Surround yourself with people who share your “Why.”
Building something that lasts takes years, not months. The question isn’t whether you’ll hit speed bumps, but how you’ll react when you do.