The Character of Determination

Character Leadership - The Character of Determination

“I'm a great believer in luck, and I find that the harder I work, the more I have of it.”   – Thomas Jefferson

Definition:  Showing a strong desire to follow a particular plan of action even if it is difficult.

Weakness, Discouragement, Powerlessness, Giving Up, and Faintheartedness, are the opposites of determination. These negatives mindsets will allow you to give up too soon, when all you had to do is hang in a bit longer. If you are not determined to exhibit character, you will give up too soon and miss the fruits of what final destination can offer. As Character Leaders, we must set goals that give us direction and purpose in life. As long as we know where we are heading, we will not be diverted and distracted as long as we are determined. Setting short and long term goals are important milestone for determination to work itself. We need goals to have determination.

Determination is the ability to make difficult decisions and accomplish goals regardless of the resistance one may be encountered. It is the ability to set ourselves worthy pursuits, and not allow ourselves to be distracted or discouraged. Most importantly, you ignore distractions and laziness by being focus on the task.

You will be on the right track if you have the desire to transform laziness or wrong direction into ways you can improve with good. However, if our determination is driven by pride or just the motivation to excel at all cost, it is a good bet we are on the wrong track; we just want to bring glory to ourselves without regards to others.

Reflection:

Ask yourself; “Do I have short term and long term goals? Do I have the determination to reach my goals?” Without goals in life, determination cannot be manifested. When we set goals, we must be focused on reaching it. There are many distractions in life. It may not necessarily be caused by others. Daydreaming and wasting time is also a form of distraction. Learn how to ignore and avoid them.

As Character leaders, we must extend ourselves to other people with determination and what flows out of determination are joy of reward and strong courage. When we sometimes falter, we lose confidence and give up hope. When we get criticized or ridiculed, this is the time to show determination by willing ourselves to press on and keep in track of our goals. Problems must be talked head on. If we do not do this, we will find that the problems will overwhelm us and we will fall victim to despair. Character Leaders do not grow despair, we grow stronger with problems.