Who needs talent or an education?

“Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful people with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent. The slogan “press on” has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race”-US President Calvin Coolidge

People have always told me that I was persistent, which I didn’t really think was much of a compliment, until now. Today I have a very different understanding of this word and how important it is to persist and be persistent. As President Coolidge says, the ability to “press on” has empowered me to find solutions to what seemed to be impossible situations. Life presents us with all sorts of problems and challenges that can feel insurmountable, with no solution in site.  So the only course of action is to press on and persist no matter what is happening around you. In time, solutions will come and you’ve seen your way through.

And in spite of my talent, education, and intelligence it is my persistence that has served me so well. It’s a competitive world and there are lots of other talented, educated and intelligent people around. What is going to separate you from them? That’s right, persistence. Most people give up pretty easily or don’t take the time to see things through, which explains why the divorce rate in the US is over 50%, and why you’re friends have opted out of school or quit what seemed to be relatively good jobs. In today’s competitive job market it is more important than ever to be persistent. A friend of mine once told me, “I might not be the smartest guy, but I’ll out work anyone, any day.” And it is that phrase I keep in mind when I think I might not have what it takes, I just remind myself, I might not be the smartest or most educated, but I’m willing to work my butt off.

When I look around at the fruit of my labors I’m glad to know that I didn’t give up. And as I face the ever present obstacles life continues to place in my path, I know it is persistence and determination that will carry me through.