In real estate, much as in life, always remember that ‘no’ is the beginning of ‘yes.’ In my real estate business in 2009, during the crash, there was a big property that I was interested in, and I was going to extend myself. Everybody told me that the property’s owner was nuts. They said, “Do not call him, do not speak to him, nothing.” The first time I called him he gave me every curse word in the book. So, what I did the next day was, I just called him back and I was even nicer to him. And I did that for a year, every single day. And then one day he had a situation with his partner, and he said, “Listen, if you do this and this, the property is yours.” I said, “Done.” I didn’t negotiate anything with him, and that property today is probably one of the best investments that I’ve ever made.
Here’s more on why being persistent in business is crucial.
Persistence in business is the secret sauce that transforms dreams into reality and challenges into triumphs. It’s not just a trait; it’s a mindset, a relentless pursuit of goals despite obstacles. In the entrepreneurial landscape, where uncertainty is the only constant, persistence becomes the anchor that keeps you grounded in your vision.
At the core of persistence is the ability to navigate setbacks without losing sight of the end goal. Business, by its nature, is a rollercoaster ride with highs and lows. Deals fall through, markets fluctuate, and unexpected hurdles arise. It’s during these moments that the persistent entrepreneur stands out. Instead of succumbing to despair, they see challenges as opportunities for growth and learning.
Persistence is not blind stubbornness; it’s a calculated determination to learn from failures and iterate on strategies. Thomas Edison, after numerous attempts, famously said, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” This mindset encapsulates the essence of persistence—seeing setbacks as steppingstones towards success rather than roadblocks.
In the dynamic world of business, adaptability is a close companion of persistence. Markets evolve, consumer preferences shift, and technological landscapes transform. A persistent entrepreneur doesn’t cling to outdated methods; instead, they pivot and adapt. This ability to evolve with the times ensures not only survival but also positions the business to thrive in changing environments.
The road to success is rarely a straight path. It’s a maze of uncertainties and unexpected turns. What sets apart those who make it from those who don’t is often the sheer determination to keep moving forward. Whether faced with financial challenges, fierce competition, or even self-doubt, persistence whispers in the entrepreneur’s ear, encouraging them to take one more step, make one more call, or brainstorm one more innovative solution.
Building a business is akin to constructing a skyscraper. It requires a strong foundation, steady progress, and the ability to weather storms. The persistent entrepreneur understands that success is not an overnight phenomenon. It’s a gradual accumulation of efforts, a consistent pursuit of excellence. They are not discouraged by the slow pace of progress; instead, they revel in the small victories, recognizing them as building blocks for future success.
Persistence is contagious. It inspires not only the entrepreneur but also the team, investors, and stakeholders. When leaders exhibit unwavering determination, it creates a culture of resilience within the organization. This collective persistence becomes a driving force that propels the entire business forward, even in the face of adversity.
In conclusion, persistence in business is not just a quality; it’s a survival strategy and a potent catalyst for success. It’s about staying the course when others falter, learning from failures, adapting to change, and celebrating the journey as much as the destination. As Winston Churchill aptly put it, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.”