I remember a time in my life when I was on the verge of giving up. It was during my early days as a writer. Rejections piled up, and I questioned if I was cut out for this.
But then I remembered my father saying, “Danial, the difference between failure and success is often just staying with a problem a little longer.”
That spark ignited something within me and urged me not to give up.
And so, I decided to give it “one more” try.
One more query, one more draft, one more day of believing in the magic of words and the power of my voice
That “one more” led to my first published article.
The Magic of Persistence
Have you ever noticed how the most memorable moments in our lives often come after the phrase “one more”?
One more rep in the gym when our muscles scream for rest. One more minute of meditation when our mind is restless. One more revision of that project that seems never-ending.
It’s that “one more” that transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary.
As Winston Churchill once said, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.”
The magic of “one more” is that thin line between success and failure.
Power of Persistence in History
If you ever feel alone, remember that there are countless others who have followed this and carved their name in history.
Thomas Edison
Edison faced thousands of failures before inventing the light bulb. His journey wasn’t about immediate success but the relentless pursuit of innovation.
J.K. Rowling
Rowling faced numerous rejections, with publishers blind to the magic of Harry Potter. Yet, she persisted, believing in the world she’d created.
Colonel Sanders
Sanders traveled across the U.S., facing rejection after rejection, before his chicken recipe was accepted. His story is about having an unwavering belief in one’s craft.
Walt Disney
Disney was fired from a newspaper for “lacking imagination” and “having no original ideas.” He went on to create a global empire that has brought joy to millions. His story is a testament to the power of dreaming big and persisting against all odds.
Albert Einstein
Einstein was considered a slow learner in his early years, with many doubting his potential. Yet, he persisted in his studies and research, eventually formulating the theory of relativity and changing the course of physics.
Oprah Winfrey
Oprah faced numerous challenges in her early life, from poverty to abuse. However, her unwavering determination and belief in her voice led her to become one of the most influential figures in media.
Abraham Lincoln
Before becoming one of the most influential Presidents of the United States, Abraham Lincoln faced numerous failures in his career, including losing eight elections. His unwavering determination led him to the presidency in 1860, a testament to his perseverance since embarking on his political path in 1832.
Steve Jobs
Steve Jobs was ousted from Apple, the very company he co-founded. Instead of giving up, he founded NeXT and Pixar, eventually returning to Apple and leading it to unprecedented heights.
They all come from diverse fields and backgrounds yet shares a common thread – the indomitable spirit of persistence. Their stories serve as a beacon, illuminating the path for all who dare to dream and persevere.
The Psychology and Philosophy of “One More”
I recall those nights, facing a blank page, the cursor blinking expectantly, waiting for words to flow. The challenge wasn’t just to write, but to write something meaningful.
And in those moments, a soft whisper of “Just one line to start, Danial” became my guiding star.
Our brains are wired for routine and comfort. But when we challenge ourselves, even if it’s just a tiny bit more than yesterday, we create new neural pathways.
This principle taps into our innate desire for growth, nudging us out of complacency and into the realm of possibility.
In our journey, whether personal or professional, the difference between being average and outstanding often boils down to that extra effort. It’s about pushing our boundaries, challenging our limits, and believing that we have more to give.
Knowing When to Persevere and When to Shift
The ‘One More’ philosophy, like any guiding principle, can be a double-edged sword. Relentlessly charging forward without a moment’s reflection can steer us toward exhaustion and burnout.
The power of “one more” has often been my beacon, guiding me through my darkest hours. But there have been moments when I’ve felt the subtle nudge to consider a new direction.
I’ve learned to trust that inner voice.
There are times when true bravery for me isn’t about pushing forward, but about pausing, reflecting, and perhaps choosing a different path altogether.
It’s essential to recognize when “one more” is beneficial and when it’s detrimental, ensuring we don’t cross the fine line between persistence and stubbornness.
After all, isn’t life’s beauty found in its unpredictability, in the choices we make, and the paths we choose?
Tips for Implementing the ‘One More’ Principle
Embracing the ‘one more’ principle is not about mindlessly pushing yourself to the brink of exhaustion. If you’re new to this, Here are a few tips that have helped me in my journey.
Set Clear Goals
You need to set clear goals to adapt to the “one more” principle. What does “one more” mean to you? Is it one more mile on your morning run or one more draft of your report?
By defining clear boundaries and setting specific goals, you give direction to your efforts. This clarity not only ensures that you stay on track but also infuses your journey with purpose and intention.
So, take a moment to reflect on what “one more” looks like in different areas of your life, and let that be your guiding star.
Believe in Yourself
Our biggest critic, and also our most significant supporter, is often the reflection we see in the mirror. Doubt has a sneaky way of creeping in, especially when we’re on the brink of something new or challenging.
But trust me when I say, you have within you a reservoir of strength, resilience, and potential. You’ve overcome challenges before, and you can do it again.
So, the next time you’re on the fence about giving something “one more” shot, remember all the times you’ve risen to the occasion.
Stay Curious
Do you recall the insatiable curiosity we had as children? The endless questions, the fascination with the world around us, the fearless approach to new challenges?
Somewhere along the way, many of us lose that spark. But what if we could reignite it? Approach life’s challenges with that same child-like wonder.
When faced with a hurdle, instead of backing down, ask yourself, “What if I tried one more time? What new perspective can I bring? What can I learn from this?”
Practice Persistence
Think of persistence as a muscle. Just like you’d train your body at the gym, train your willpower and determination. Every time you push past a challenge, every time you choose to persevere despite the odds, you’re flexing that persistence muscle.
And trust me, the more you exercise it, the stronger and more resilient it becomes. So, make it a habit to stretch your limits, to go just a tad bit further each time.
Before you know it, what seemed impossible becomes your new norm.
Celebrate Small Wins
Life’s not just about the grand moments, the monumental achievements. It’s also about the small, seemingly insignificant milestones. Every time you push yourself to do that “one more”, you’re scoring a win.
Every tiny victory, every incremental progress, is a testament to your dedication and effort. So, don’t wait for the big moments. Celebrate these small wins.
They’re the building blocks of your larger success story.
In the end …
The journey of “one more” is about understanding our potential, pushing our boundaries, and recognizing when to pivot. It’s about celebrating the small victories and learning from the setbacks.
As Maya Angelou beautifully put it, “We may encounter many defeats, but we must not be defeated.”
So, the next time you’re faced with a challenge, remember the power of “one more” and the strength within you to rise above.
FAQs
What does ‘one more’ mean?
‘One more’ is a mindset. It’s about pushing beyond your limits, going the extra mile, and not settling for mediocrity.
How can I apply the ‘one more’ mindset in my life?
You can apply the ‘one more’ mindset in various aspects of your life, such as personal growth, professional development, physical fitness, and learning new skills. It’s about giving just a little bit more effort, time, or attention than required.
Does ‘one more’ mean I have to overwork myself?
No, embracing the ‘one more’ mindset is not about overworking yourself. It’s about understanding your limits and then pushing them just a little bit further in a healthy and sustainable way.
Can the ‘one more’ mindset guarantee success?
While the ‘one more’ mindset can significantly increase your chances of success, it doesn’t guarantee it. Success depends on various factors, including your goals, strategies, resources, and external circumstances.
How do I differentiate between persistence and stubbornness?
Persistence is about staying committed to a goal, while stubbornness is refusing to adapt or change one’s approach despite repeated failures. It’s about being flexible in your methods but firm in your purpose.
How can I inspire others to adopt the “one more” philosophy?
Lead by example. Share your “one more” stories, celebrate small victories, and encourage others to embrace challenges with a “one more” spirit.
Are there any books or resources that delve deeper into this philosophy?
Yes, books like “Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance” by Angela Duckworth and “The Compound Effect” by Darren Hardy explore similar themes.