Perseverance Through Adversity Leads to Success

Whether it is business, war, or politics, we have heard the same message over and over again: “Don’t give up the ship.” What does it take to persevere through adversity? How do you know when it’s time to cut your losses?

Adversity Defined

Let’s be clear what we mean by adversity. It is different for each of us. For some, it means not meeting the goals you set. For others, it can be more drastic…running out of money and not being able to meet the payroll. It can take the form of horrendous disputes with the board or management team, or it can be the recognition that the project and vision are not viable with the current resources and staff. All of these are obstacles that can be tackled successfully.

Start Inside

The first step is to summon forth the courage and inspiration that comes from your original vision. You came to this business because there was something you wanted to achieve. It was more than monetary rewards and fame. You created the company out of a passion. Before you can overcome the obstacles, reach inside your own heart and remember what got you started in the first place.

Use Your Network

As you established the business, you created a network of trusted employees, managers, advisors, and a Board of Directors. These folks are on your side. They joined because they too were inspired by your vision. Now is the time to tap their brains and expertise to navigate challenging times. Open yourself to their points of view and wisdom.

Morph Your Idea

Have you ever seen how a flowing river deals with a huge boulder than is in its way? It flows around it. It gracefully changes the path it was on to flow elsewhere. This is an image for how you can reshape your vision. You don’t throw it away. You don’t have to carve an entirely new river bed. You simply shift the shape into something that allows movement. Especially if you are stuck, without movement, any movement at all will be helpful. Standing water becomes stagnant. Don’t just stop. Move in a slightly different direction. For example, if your vision was to create something for small businesses, and you realize the market was too broad, you redefine the exact nature of the business you want to address.

Consider Timing

Adversity is never permanent. How do we know this? Because it is a fundamental fact of life that nothing is permanent, everything is in flux at all times. That includes obstacles. When you run into an obstacle, it may be a signal to scale back your efforts, and allow time to manipulate circumstances. Sometimes it is out-waiting an economic season; it could also be waiting for technology to catch up with your needs. You may be ahead of the market. Don’t give up. Slowing down, taking things in smaller steps, is a shrewd business strategy in times of adversity. h2. Know When To Stop

Given all the advice, there is always a cessation point. Determining the time to cut your losses is exercising your best discrimination. Here are some of the telling signs that this project needs to come to a close:

• Your health is deteriorating because of the stress or other factors
• Your family and outside life is falling apart because of the business
• Your best allies are telling you to let go of the business

Letting go of something that is not working is not a statement of quitting, or a statement of failure. It is a statement that you value something even more … such as health and family. When you truly value yourself, you will know what to hold on to, and what to let go of. Trust that and it will see you through all adversity.

When it is time to move on, look for a strategic partner to acquire what you’ve build and possibly hire. Watch your vision take new shape under someone else’s direction and feel proud that you’ve offered the seed. (See our article on Selling Your Business)

Web Quote for this topic

“Ho‘omau is the Hawaiian value of perseverance and persistence. Those who ho‘omau do not give up, and they certainly do not waste their time (and squander others’ attentions) by moaning and complaining. Optimists know (not just believe, KNOW) that times of adversity are when winners emerge. Winners leverage what they DO have going for them in the best possible way with an abundance mentality (Palena ‘ole) and positive expectancy.”