The Strength of Perseverance

When reflecting on my greatest strengths, I don’t point to talent. As I’ve written before, I don’t see myself as exceptionally gifted—I know people who are more talented than I am. But what drives my progress is something different: energy, perseverance, and the ability to reflect critically on my own actions.

I’ve already written about the importance of being critical of myself. Now, I’d like to focus on perseverance, which I see as a natural outcome of two other traits: a forward-looking mindset and the ability to pick goals that are exciting enough to sustain my effort.

Long-Term Thinking and Strength from the Past

We live in a world that often champions the mantra of carpe diem, emphasizing the importance of living in the moment. While I respect this perspective—and occasionally embrace it—my natural inclination is toward the future. For me, most actions I take today must have a purpose rooted in the long-term.

At the same time, I draw strength from looking at the past. The blood of those who fought in the First and Second World Wars runs through my veins. My family history is rich with resilience and leadership. I see it in figures like my great-grandmother’s brother, a general, and the first political official to oppose the autocracy during the turbulent 1990s in Slovakia. It’s also present in my immediate family—my father, who in his youth adeptly navigated Slovakia’s post-revolutionary economy, and my uncle, who led our hometown hockey club with resolve. And I could go on; there are many more examples that remind me of the strength and potential within my lineage.

This legacy inspires me to approach challenges with determination and confidence.

But looking to the past and future isn’t enough. Perseverance requires something more.

Striving for the Best

At the heart of my perseverance lies an unwavering pursuit of the best. Whatever I strive for must represent, in some sense, the best possible outcome. When a goal feels genuinely worthwhile, it becomes easier to dedicate oneself to it for years—or even a lifetime.

Self-Control as a Byproduct of Purpose

The interplay between drawing strength from the past, envisioning the future, and pursuing an inspiring goal gives me remarkable self-control.

My family, especially my mother, often advises me to “enjoy myself more” and “not limit myself so much.” But I see things differently. For me, joy lies in the journey toward something exceptional. Strong self-discipline feels effortless because my purpose aligns so closely with what I value.

This ease of self-control sets me apart. While many understand the importance of perseverance and discipline, for most, it demands considerable energy. As Seneca said: "Imperare sibi maximum imperium est"—to rule yourself is the ultimate power. For me, it’s intrinsic, requiring almost no effort. I consider this a gift—something I’m deeply grateful for.

I know I’ve said I don’t feel exceptionally gifted, but this is a curious kind of gift. It’s not one I was born with or something handed to me. Instead, it’s something I’ve grown into—a gift shaped by clarity of purpose, an unwavering focus on exciting goals, and honed through lessons from my past and my family’s past. Those lessons include examples of resilience and strength, as well as moments where poor perseverance and self-control had unpleasant consequences.

I am grateful for all these lessons.