Why Persistence Pays Off

Summary: Persisting at something allows you to learn things that you would not have otherwise.

The negotiation experience for a 1% grade increase taught me a very valuable lesson in regards to why persistence pays off.

We have all been told to persist by why exactly should we persist?

Its like telling a child to do something without him understanding why he should.

Persisting at something allows you to learn things that you would not have otherwise.

In my case, my first appeal with the guidance counselor was very weak, thus, she said No. Knowing her objections, I addressed those in my next appeal to my teacher.

It was still too weak and I got rejected.

Knowing the teacher’s and counsellor’s objection, I articulated a stronger appeal and went to the department head.

It was still too weak and I got rejected.

Long story short, about time I went to the principal’s office I had gotten 4 no’s and knew their objections. I incorporated all the learnings from all these “No’s” in my final appeal to the principal.

The result was a YES!

I would not have gotten a YES if I had not persisted and learned along the way.

My experience is granular as compared to individuals who’s persistence have changed the world forever – prophets, scientists, and inventors.