Persistence Isn’t Passion — It’s Alignment

People talk about persistence like it’s something heroic. Like if you just try harder, longer, louder — it will work.

But I see it differently.

Persistence isn’t about pushing through everything. It’s about knowing what’s worth pushing for — and whether you’re really the right person to carry it. It's not motivation. It's alignment.

When I persist, it’s because I see a clear path. A focal point. Something I believe will lead to light, not just sweat.

There’s a difference between persistence and stubbornness.

Persistence is managing the boredom. Showing up despite repetition. Beating procrastination.

Stubbornness is trying to control what’s beyond your reach — often because you’ve overestimated yourself, or underestimated the consequences.

That’s a dangerous trap in business.

If your shop rent requires sales you’ve never hit… that’s not persistence. That’s denial. Before I persist, I always ask:

> Can I afford this — financially, physically, emotionally?

And if I fail, I don’t blame people anymore.

I reflect: Did I bring in the wrong person? Did I sign up for work without knowing what it required?

These are case studies. Not personal betrayals. Just lessons.

If someone asks me:

“Why should I persist?”

I’d say: go back to what made you start in the first place. And then ask:

Has that reason changed?

Have you changed?

Are you chasing something real, or just proving something to yourself?

Persistence is powerful. But only when it's aligned with who you are — and what you’re actually able to carry.

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