Persistence

Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence.
Talent will not; nothing is more common
than unsuccessful men 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.

— Calvin Coolidge

This is one of my all-time favorite quotes. I have committed it to memory at various times in my life and had it posted on the wall of my office on many occasions.

I am a firm believer that the tortoise always wins the race in the end. Every worthwhile journey is long and arduous. Determination and persistence compel me to continue to put one foot in front of the other and trod on.

I lived in Colorado in the late 80’s and had many occasion to hike in the Rocky Mountains. The trails were often rough and the terrain rugged. But the vistas were panoramic. Every once in a while I would look over my shoulder and be amazed at how far I had traveled.

Such is life. I have led some significant organizational transformations in my professional career and I have experienced my share of challenges and growth in my personal life. The way forward is always deliberate and steady. All change is incremental. Persistence and determination are omnipotent.