“Patience and perseverance have a magical effect before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish.”  John Quincy Adams.

I enjoy learning about people who have been written off and go on to achieve great things against all the odds. I love reading stories about how people recovered and bounced back from set-backs. There are countless stories of how many famous people had to overcome disappointment and rejection.

For example, Steven Spielberg was rejected from the University of Southern California School of Theatre, Film and Television three times before becoming famous for his big budget box office film successes.

JK Rowling went from depending on welfare to survive to being one of the richest women in the world in a span of only five years through her hard work and determination.  Today some of Monet’s work sells for millions of pounds but during his lifetime his work was mocked and rejected by the artistic elite.

There may be occasions when you have put forward ideas or suggestions and people have not been persuaded. Alternatively, you may have spent hours developing something only for your efforts to prove fruitless despite having previously received positive vibes and encouragement. Rejection such as this can be frustrating and temporarily hit your confidence and motivation levels.

Whilst doing some research recently I came across some examples of when people’s ideas and suggestions were knocked back and as you will see the “rest is history.”

  • “I think there is a world market for maybe five computers.” Thomas Watson, Chairman of IBM 1943.
  • “We don’t like their sound and guitar music is on the way out.” Decca recording company after rejecting The Beatles.
  • “Drill for oil? You mean drill into the ground to try and find oil? You’re crazy.” Workers whom Edwin L Drake tried to enlist to his project to drill for oil in 1859.
  • “Radio has no future. Heavier than air flying machines are impossible. X rays will prove to be a hoax.” William Thompson (Lord Kelvin) British Scientist.
  • “The Americans have need of the telephone, but we do not. We have plenty of messenger boys.” Sir William Preece, Chief Engineer of the British Post Office, 1876.
  • “It will be years, not in my time before a woman will become Prime Minister.” Margaret Thatcher 1974.

This week, why not take a few moments to reflect and consider if there is a situation professionally or personally where you need to show greater perseverance or determination.  Consider what different approaches or action steps you might attempt.

To arrange a free no obligation consultation, please contact Stephen Pauley via the contact form or by e mail: Stephen@befirstclass.co.uk