THREE MEN DANCING
“It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.” – Confucius
Whenever I was asked about founding the Impression 5 Museum in Michigan or building the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry in Portland, the first question was always the same: “What’s the secret to your success?” My answer never changed—passion and perseverance. Passion for engaging children through interactive learning. And perseverance when others told me it couldn’t be done.
“It always seems impossible until it’s done.” – Nelson Mandela
Through the years, I’ve spoken with countless entrepreneurs, scientists, writers, leaders, and parents. Each of them—despite different paths—has emphasized one common trait: perseverance. They kept learning, stayed flexible through challenges, and never gave up. Their determination was rooted in optimism—a belief that the future holds promise.
“Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.” – Helen Keller
Success is rarely smooth. The road is filled with potholes—setbacks, failures, rejection. Nine out of ten startups don’t make it. But those who succeed don’t let failure stop them. They adapt, learn, and keep going. They see adversity not as the end, but as a puzzle to solve.
“Believe in yourself! Have faith in your abilities! Without a humble but reasonable confidence in your own powers, you cannot be successful or happy.” – Norman Vincent Peale
Confidence and hope often begin at home. Parents are a child’s first role models. When they demonstrate how to persevere through difficulty, they’re teaching resilience. When they support a child who’s bullied, struggling, or afraid, they help shape a future adult who believes in themselves. Optimism doesn’t mean ignoring challenges—it means believing they can be overcome.
“The only thing standing between you and your goal is the story you keep telling yourself as to why you can’t achieve it.” – Jordan Belfort
Not everyone grows up in a nurturing home. But the good news is, perseverance and optimism can be learned. It starts with a simple shift: the willingness to try. And if that try fails, the determination to try again. Psychologist Lewis Lee found that optimists sleep better, have fewer strokes, and live longer than pessimists. Why? Because optimism builds resilience.
“The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
Changing your mindset isn’t always easy—but it’s possible. One of my early counseling clients was taught to snap a rubber band on his wrist whenever he caught himself thinking negatively. That small gesture became a powerful tool for awareness and change. Lee also suggests journaling—set goals, track your thoughts, and write down what you’re grateful for. Reflect on the best version of yourself. Recognize when negativity creeps in, and learn to see it as temporary—not permanent. Just like going to the gym strengthens your body, these mental exercises can rewire your brain.
Like many, I sometimes feel disheartened by today’s world. The kindness, decency, and open conversations I grew up with feel harder to come by. Too many are afraid to speak the truth. And yet—I remain hopeful. I believe that beneath the noise and fear, most people are still good. They care. And when the time comes, they’ll do what’s right.
Because they, too, have the power to persevere.
Please comment below.
Resources:
White. P. (2007) The Role of Perseverance in Success: Appreciation at Work Retrieved from https://www.appreciationatwork.com/blog/the-role-of-perseverance-in-success/?
Landowski,A. (2023) The Importance of Persevance & Optimism in Business. Ceo-review.Retrieved from https://www.ceo-review.com/the-importance-of-perseverance-optimism-in-business
Perton, V. ( 2025). Perseverance is Underpinned by Optimism. Optimism. Retrieved from
https://www.centreforoptimism.com/blog/perseverance-is-underpinned-by-optimism
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I have a passion for writing, but find marketing my books less enjoyable. However, since writing is pointless if the books aren’t read, I persevere and reach out to new audiences, hoping that my words will resonate with someone.
The Water Factor is a Firebird International Award winner for best dystopian novel and a Literary Titan recipient for best thriller. Although enjoyable to read, it carries a severe message about water scarcity. It is available in ebook, paperback, and audio formats. It can be purchased on AMAZON, Barnes & Noble, and as an audiobook on Amazon, Audible, and iTunes. Ask your bookstore to order a copy from Ingram Sparks.
