Speak to your Path: #DontGiveUp

These three words “don’t give up” can sound like a cliché to many. They are so commonly used (in just about every situation and/or hardship) that for some people, they may not hold as much weight anymore, causing them to lose sight of the amount of power these words together can hold. These same weary people may feel like taking the easy way out or quitting is more convincing than the words themselves. I’ve been one of those weary people before that lost sight of the true meaning in these three words. I am guilty of letting certain circumstances and hardships discourage me and doubt the power these words hold.
 
I’ve learned that giving up can only make matters worse. In addition to losing what may have been a great opportunity, the psychological pressure and guilt, alone, that one may experience from giving up, can make the situation or circumstances tougher to bear than if they were to stay the course and see things through. Typically, the best things in life (i.e. accomplishments, achievements, victories, etc.) don’t come easy. They all require sacrifice, perseverance, endurance, resilience, and a can-do-it attitude.
 
Many may have grown accustom to giving up when situations or circumstances gets tougher.  Depending on how one may have been brought up, some may be conditioned to not pushing themselves beyond their limits because of systemic behavior that can be the result of what they were exposed to. This can also be attributed to a societal or environmental epidemic within certain communities where resources and opportunities are scarce.  
 
These three words (don’t give up) may sound easier than it truly is, but it is factual that not giving up and choosing to keep going and seeing things through to the end is far more rewarding and self-gratifying than giving up.
 
Before choosing to give up, consider some of the things below:

• Push yourself harder each day and you will slowly start to light at the end of the tunnel.
• There are others who look up to you and who may be counting on you.
• You may be the first to break the cycle of quitting or giving up too soon.   
• Your determination may influence others to improve themselves!

 
 Here are some things to help you along your way:

• Redefine Yourself. A new definition of who you are brings new possibilities.
• Write down what you want for yourself! Imagine it and focus on the experiences that these things may render.
• Once you have a vision of what want, go after it!
• Commit to the new you! To the new experience of who you are. If old habits or thoughts pull you back, move past this test in a different way with a new choice!

 
When things go wrong and you make a mistake or poor choice, don’t beat yourself up (see last week’s blog on this topic). These things are inevitable and happens to the best of us. Overcoming and learning from our poor choices, mistakes, and failures is what makes us stronger and wiser, so welcome these opportunities and turn these negatives into positives. Once you do, you will recognize and appreciate the power of these words.
 
 I am convinced (and a believer) that God does not make mistakes. I DO believe that He would not give us more than we can bear.
 
Don’t give up!