There’s something extraordinary that happens as we age. By the time we reach – let’s just say a ‘certain age’ – we’ve lived through enough to know what we’re made of. We’ve raised children, built careers, managed households, endured heartbreaks, and overcome hurdles that once seemed insurmountable, overwhelming and sometimes soul destroying. And yet, even with all this wisdom, many of us still hold dreams close to our hearts – some we’ve quietly carried for decades. And for some of us, maybe not so quietly …
Here’s the truth (because at my age, I don’t need to beat around the bush): when you want something badly enough, you find a way. It might not look the way you thought it would, and it might take longer than you ever imagined, but if you stay persistent, you will find a path forward.
This morning this word persistence really came up for me. A couple of weeks’ ago, I must admit I was quietly questioning my mental faculties in continuing to compete on the world tennis stage. The unending losses and disappointment. The workouts that sometimes have driven me to vomit. The ever present aches and pains of pushing limits. And the continual managing rest, recovery, diet, hydration, sleep and everything in between. It’s a constant juggling act no question of it. But then I actually started to remind myself of why I’m continuing to put myself through this. And a couple of things keep coming up. I want to see what I’m capable of and I want my up and coming 10 year old son to see what it looks like and hopefully pave a pathway for him.
Persistence though is very misunderstood. It’s not about pushing nonstop without rest (God only knows that I am constantly learning that little lesson). It’s not about stubbornness or ignoring the signs around you (family, work etc). True persistence is about honouring what matters most to you – and refusing to let time, fear or worse – other people’s opinions shut the door on your desire. After all, it’s YOUR life, no-one else’s.
Maybe you’ve always wanted to write a book, start a business (I can help with that), go back to school, travel solo or finally take that painting class. Maybe your goal isn’t flashy or big – but deeply personal and meaningful, like healing a relationship or learning to put yourself first for once. Whatever it is, if it keeps tugging at your soul, it’s not too late. And don’t ignore that tug …
The beautiful thing about this season of life is that we no longer need permission. We are the wise grown-ups. We know how to navigate uncertainty. We know that setbacks don’t mean failure – they’re just part of our amazing journey. We’ve lived through “I can’t” and come out the other side stronger. That’s our quiet power: we knows our strength, and we are not afraid to use it. Watch out!
Of course, persistence doesn’t mean the road is paved with tulips and unicorns. There will be moments when doubt creeps back in and raises its ugly head – when you’ll question your timing, your abilities, your right to want more (guilty as charged). But that’s when you pause, breathe, and remind yourself: I’ve gotten through harder things than this. And thus my reason to step back for the last 12 days’.
But keep showing up. Keep adjusting your plan if needed (and crown if required), but never abandon the dream itself. Allow your desire to guide you, not pressure you. Give yourself the grace to move forward in your own way, at your own pace. Powerful and meaningful goals, after all, are always a marathon and never a sprint.
Because here’s what I know for sure: when you want it badly enough – really, truly want it in your bones and heart of hearts – you’ll keep going. No. Matter. What. You’ll find mentors, seek out resources, ask for help and keep moving, even if your knees are shaking and you are wondering what the hell you are doing here.
So if you’re holding a dream that won’t let go, don’t let go of it either. It’s never too late to go after what you really want. Keep going. Keep at it. Stay in the game. You’ve come this far – just imagine what you are capable of?