Whether it’s starting a new business, learning a new language, or mastering an instrument — we love to start things without finishing. One of the biggest reasons why we never achieve our goals is due to a lack of motivation and persistence.
We start out with an abundance of optimism about the journey, without being fully prepared mentally for the inevitable obstacles ahead.
As Tony Robbins says, “Success in anything is 80% psychology, and 20% mechanics.”
Here are six powerful ways to become more persistent, so you’ll never quit again.
1. Have a vision outside of yourself
It all starts with this first step.
2. Build a support team
As the popular saying goes, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”
3. Have a growth mindset
In order to achieve our goals, we often have to get out of our own way.
4. Schedule it
The most successful people in the world, including billionaire entrepreneurs, Olympic athletes, and world-class learners, all use schedules to prioritize their day.
5. Teach Others
Have you ever taught something you learned to someone and found it easier to remember in the future?
6. Have stakes
Why are we less likely to be late to a business meeting than a meeting with our friends? Because the former could get us fired. As humans, we’re naturally more motivated to commit when there is a consequence or a stake, even if it’s a friendly one.