Steve Dennie reflects on several quotes from Seth Godin’s book The Dip at his blog “Random Pokes”.

His article is titled Just Quit It!.

For years leadership theories have taught us to evaluate our activities and to eliminate those things that fail to move us towards our goals, or don’t yield enough return on investment. So the idea isn’t earth-shattering.

The quotes that Steve shares got me thinking about this area again. In our country we have been taught that quitting is a character flaw. Perseverance, overcoming against all odds, victory – those are more in line with our values.

The idea that the cowards are those who won’t stop doing the same thing – that’s a hard one to accept. (my paraphase of not having the guts to quit). But its pretty much true. It takes more guts to deal with the reality of the situation, and less courage to “just keep trying”.

If you have the right perspective then you’ll understand that overcoming, victory, etc. is about the prize at the finish line. Most people take their eyes from the prize. The strategy becomes the end. It then defines us.

I encourage you to read it and then come back and share your thoughts.