Persistence

Ambition without persistence is rarely rewarding and usually frustrating.  Most things that we accomplish require repeated attempts to master the skills necessary to succeed and then we must also have perseverance to successfully implement those skills on a regular basis.  Malcolm Gladwell wrote that "ten thousand hours is the magic of greatness."  I won't claim to know if that is accuracy of that statement but the fact is that repeating proven successful strategies helps you to gain mastery.  

I have a story related to sales that I often tell.  For my first several years recruiting a prospect that I wanted to do business with hung up on me just about every time I called and told him my name, often shouting "Don't call me again!"  After dozens of times attempting to speak with him I slightly changed my approach and when he answered I immediately asked, "You aren't going to yell and hang up again are you?"  He chuckled and asked, who is this?  After telling him we had a nice conversation which led to an agreement to do business and has created a long term and mutually beneficial relationship.  The lessons are don't give up, be persistent, make adjustments and don't take any thing personally.  I frequently remind myself of this story when struggling for success with a particular person or feel that I am in a rut.  Success is only a conversation away!