When times get tough, it’s easy to wonder why you don’t just give up.
My grandfather used to say, ‘you’re a long time dead’. That’s something that has stuck with me.
The old saying means that you only have limited time on Earth, so you should enjoy your life while you can.
In business, I apply a similar approach.
Don’t Give Up
There has been so much to endure in the past three years that it is no wonder many have considered quitting.
After the COVID-19 pandemic, there were hopes of a financial recovery that might save many struggling businesses. Instead, we were hit by rocketing inflation, soaring costs, rising interest rates, and the possibility of a recession.
Given the hardships so many have endured, how can I say don’t give up?
Simply because of this, yesterday has happened and tomorrow is filled with opportunity.
Wise Words
I’ve been reflecting on my grandfather’s message recently.
Like everyone, I’ve endured personal and professional challenges in recent years. There have been times when it seemed a day couldn’t pass without negativity rearing its ugly head.
It has been tempting to think about giving in. But then I recall the advice ‘you’re a long time dead’ and remember why you don’t give up.
Your time on Earth is fleeting. You need to make the most of it. For me, in business, that means striving for success every day, whatever the odds.
Stubborn or Determined?
My journey has shaped my personality. As regular readers will know, I’ve experienced success and failure, learning valuable lessons from both.
I have tenacity, perseverance, and a strong will. Some would say I am bloody minded and stubborn. Whichever way you look at it, I’m not the sort who gives up when the going gets tough.
Instead of waving the white flag as soon as life, or business, feels hard, I double down. I refuse to be beaten and renew my efforts to overcome and succeed, whatever the challenge is.
I am determined to work on and make the most of this life. After all, you’re a long time dead.
The Sun’ll Come Up Tomorrow
My mantra is to strive to be better tomorrow than you are today. My focus is always on the future.
I ask, to quote Martin Sheen’s President Bartlett in TV show The West Wing, ‘what’s next?’.
So, when I endure a day of disappointment, I don’t wallow in it. I look to tomorrow and the opportunities it will bring.
Today might beat you down and crush your spirit, but tomorrow you’ll wake up. You’ll still be there, the same person with the same qualities and strengths. You have a new chance to turn things around through your tenacity and work.
And you’ll still have the same amazing people around you – family, friends, colleagues, mentors – giving you the support, resolve, and reason, to keep going.
The Next Generation
Sadly, I encounter many younger people who cannot view the world like this. There is a sense of entitlement among some, an expectation that the world owes them a living. When things get hard, they don’t see it as their responsibility to grasp the nettle, knuckle down, and do what is required to overcome.
They don’t see the chance for personal growth and pride in fighting. They take the easy option; surrender.
Of course, this doesn’t apply to all young people. I’ve met many budding entrepreneurs with bags of grit and tenacity. However, it would be disingenuous of me to say that the ‘quit’ mentality is not more prevalent in this demographic.
To all of them, I’d say the same thing – don’t give up. I know it feels impossible, but you can do it. The sun will rise on a new day and you’ll have every opportunity to turn it around.
Don’t Give Up
To put it bluntly, whatever challenges you face, in business and life, you simply have to say ‘f*ck you’.
Do not be bowed by the pressure. Do not be defeated. Draw on your tenacity, perseverance, and support network to keep chasing your dreams. See the new days as a fresh opportunity and keep moving forward.
After all, what’s the alternative? You’re a long time dead.
