I have always wondered, it is ‘intelligence’ over ‘tenacity / perseverance’ or vice versa. What’s required more to make a difference?
Then I told myself, anyways, I have no control over intelligence (pun intended :P ) , but I can be tenacious and persistent and still reach somewhere.
And I was so happy when I saw a NASA Shuttle astronaut endorse the same thought.
He quotes – Be tenacious: Genius is over-rated, tenacity is what counts.
I feel so much more hopeful and empowered. Yay!
NASA as we have known is a pinnacle of intelligence/genius in itself! I thought hard work would be way back a quality there. But what he says is momentous. Isn’t it?
So, here is what perseverance and tenacity means to me in different scenarios:
Scenario 1: EMPLOYED
We all see a time in our career when we have perfected the task we have been doing. This is the time when our learning curve is flat. We do not require as much time to complete the same work as when we started out. This is also called comfort zone. So, what does this situation demand from us?
Clearly, the demand is to use our time to pick a new skill to future proof our career or after work spend time on that hobby you are passionate about. That's how we can remain relevant to the rapidly changing employment landscape.
Scenario 2: NOT EMPLOYED
Firstly, ‘being unemployed’ does not determine we are less skillful or less hardworking. Specially in times like today when jobs are depleting for various reasons – automation, new skills required et al.
It certainly can be a difficult phase of life. But we can turn it around. It is easier to do this these days more than ever before. You know why? It is said, most of the jobs that will exist are not even present. So exciting times to be living. Let us pick up that skill. Not give up on ourselves. And be persistent at it.
Scenario 3: ARTIST / ENTREPRENEUR
For this, I have an experience to share from my life. I had always wanted to write books / novels. We all have that desire, we wish to make time for. After all, we all are Unique. Let us make some noise. Let our presence felt. We all are special.
Having said that, I admit it was a tough decision, but I took the leap and left my job. At the same time, I also took a far more greater responsibility of my career on myself. I was persistent on adding new skills while I was writing my books.
That’s how, after writing my books (authored three as I didn’t want to be ‘one book wonder’), with enhanced skills I returned to the workforce. Having earned that confidence of making a come back has set me 'Free' !
So, really, it takes just ‘perseverance’ and ‘tenacity’ to make a difference. Of course as I said at the onset, we cant do much about intelligence :) :P
As simple as that !
