lessons in persistence“I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.”
– From the poem “Invictus” by William Ernest Henley

As I watched what looked to be the end of the San Antonio Spurs as we know them, I began to reflect on that team’s accomplishments and what lessons I have learned watching them.

The Spurs’ “Big Three” of Tony Parker, Manu Ginobli and Tim Duncan have something like 5 NBA Finals appearances with 4 championships as a group. This wsn’ achieved with sky-walking athleticism. And while each was very good in what they did, none of them were considered the best in their era at their respective positions. But with cohesion in a coaching staff that got players to buy into the team concept 100%, they found themselves highly successful every year in racking up regular season wins, playoff series victories, and multiple titles.

Now I am a Lakers fan, so trust me when I tell you that my appreciation for that team has nothing to do with favoritism and fandom. I simply enjoy watching trust and teamwork win out. I am a huge fan of successful systems and environments where effort and consistency is paramount.

If you are like me, then you have heard motivational speakers from all walks of life communicate that it isn’t always the smartest, fastest, or most talented that wins. In fact, it usually isn’t. There is a lot to be said for getting up again and again when you experience an knockdown. THESE are the people and/or groups who win out. Once you have chosen a direction and start down that path, you do not waver.

Even if you don’t see the results right away, you have to trust the process and keep on pushing toward the goal. Pundits have been writing off the nucleus of the Spurs as being washed up for at least 5 years. In that time, they have been in the conference finals 4 times, the finals twice, won title. Those players and coaches trusted the process and no were persistent in their pursuit of flawless execution.

The next time you find yourself staring into the abyss with your employment situation, your business, or personal goals such as your weight/health or education, remember that just because you don’t see it right now doesn’t mean progress isn’t being made and you are not getting closer to the goal. Just because others are telling you there is no use in pursuing your goal, it doesn’t mean their claims have merit.

  • Construct the plan.
  • Make a decision to begin … NOW!
  • Be persistent in your execution EVERY DAY.
  • Recharge your batteries often.
  • Don’t stop until you “see it”, no matter how long that takes or how many punches to the gut you have to take to get to it.