Feedback for balance: Patience with Persistence

Early in my career, during one of my performance reviews, I had the privilege of receiving feedback from a mentor who significantly shaped my approach to leadership—Dennis Stevens. The review was going well, but when it came time for Dennis to provide feedback, he offered just one piece of advice that has stuck with me ever since: “You need to find a better balance between patience and persistence.”

At first, it seemed like a simple statement, but the more I reflected on it, the more profound it became, forever being the most valuable feedback I have every received.

A Juxtaposition

In the fast-paced world of business, it’s easy to fall into the trap of either pushing too hard or waiting too long. Persistence is vital for driving projects forward, overcoming obstacles, and achieving goals. Yet, without patience, persistence can lead to frustration, burnout, and even strained relationships.

On the flip side, patience allows us to consider the bigger picture, give others the space to contribute, and make well-informed decisions. But too much patience without persistence can result in missed opportunities, stagnation, and lack of progress.

Dennis’s feedback made me realize that true leadership lies in mastering the delicate balance between these two forces. A purposeful juxtaposition. It’s about knowing when to push forward and when to step back, when to insist and when to listen. It’s understanding that while persistence is necessary to achieve results, patience is equally important to allow those results to mature.

This balance is not always easy to maintain. It requires self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and a deep understanding of the situation and the people involved. Over the years, I’ve learned to pause and ask myself, “Am I being too persistent? Do I need to show more patience here?” These questions have helped me navigate complex challenges and lead more effectively.

Applying the Lesson

In practice, finding this balance means being mindful of your own tendencies and adapting to the needs of each situation. It’s about being persistent in your goals but patient in your approach. It’s pushing your team to excel while giving them the time and space to do so.

Whether you’re leading a team, managing a project, or driving your own career, this balance is crucial. It allows you to maintain momentum without sacrificing relationships or burning out. It ensures that you’re not only achieving results but doing so in a sustainable and impactful way.

Conclusion

Dennis’s advice to balance patience and persistence has been one of the most valuable lessons in my career. It’s a reminder that effective leadership is not just about driving results but doing so with wisdom and grace. And all of us whom have had the fortunate opportunity to work under Dennis's leadership know that he brings this in spades.

As you navigate your own career, I encourage you to find this balance. It’s not always easy, but it’s essential for long-term success.