The X Factor - Tenacity

The Dynamic Duo: Endurance, Perseverance, and the Crucial Role of Tenacity

Recently, I ran the 32km Ocra Challenge, and it was probably one of the hardest things I've ever had to do in my life. In the same breath, it was probably the best thing I could have ever done for myself. In the pursuit of our goals, we often encounter challenges that test our resolve and push us beyond our limits. Two key traits that play a pivotal role in overcoming these obstacles are endurance and perseverance. While they may seem synonymous, there are nuanced differences between the two, and together they form a formidable alliance in the journey towards success.

This was my journey at 4 am on the 17th of December 2023. I woke up and went on to run the biggest race of my life. The most I had ever run was a 21km Pier to Pier, from the South Coast uShaka Marine World Pier to the Umhlanga Pier right next to The Pearls Hotel, and that was in 2022. Running is not a hobby of mine; however, it is a very effective tool for personal growth and development.

In preparation for this race, I had ran a couple of 5km runs here and there, but I was no were close to being fully prepared for what was to come. I didn't do proper research, I didn't have proper running shoes, and I carried a backpack with my water and few essentials. I made a lot of rookie mistakes, I was ill-equipped, and I will soon learn how important the 5Ps are in the journey to success: Prior Preparation Prevents Poor Performance.

The route is all uphills and downhills, like nothing I had ever run before or prepared for. It was torture; the first 3km felt like 13km. Every uphill was excruciating, and every downhill was a reminder that it would be an uphill on the way back.

It was very clear that there was no way physically possible for me to finish this race. Getting to 20km was a miracle in itself, and there was a dramatic shift in me at this point. The race became 99% mindset and 1% physical ability. I had pains in places I never knew had muscles, cramps, muscle failure, spasms—you name it, I had it.

One of the assistants, a pro Comrades Marathon runner, decided to drive behind me, motivate, and support me the whole way back. Right next to him was an ambulance, which from this point onwards drove right behind me until I got to the finish line. YES! I finished the race despite everything. The story however is not about me finishing but rather answering the question of how I actually managed to finish the race.

When I felt the shift, I knew that I was about to learn something big about myself and find out who I really am, and learn some of the most profound lessons in life. What got me through it was Endurance, Perseverance, and sheer Tenacity.

Endurance: The Power to Withstand

Endurance is the ability to withstand hardship or adversity without giving in. It's the mental and physical stamina that allows us to keep going when faced with difficulties. Endurance is the silent force that kept me on my feet while there were tears rolling down my face! "I won't quit, I can't quit". This is true not only for running but for business, relationships, marriage, school, finances, and anything you can ever think of. Endurance keeps you on your feet! As Paul says in the book of Ephesians 6:13, "Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand, therefore".

Perseverance: The Art of Persistence

On the other hand, perseverance is the quality of persisting in the face of difficulty or delay. It's the determination to continue moving forward despite setbacks, failures, or slow progress. Perseverance is what fuels us when the initial excitement fades, and obstacles seem insurmountable. It's the backbone of resilience and the driving force behind turning setbacks into stepping stones.

The Symbiotic Relationship: Endurance and Perseverance

Endurance and perseverance are not mutually exclusive; rather, they complement each other in a symbiotic relationship. Endurance provides the stamina needed to withstand the journey's challenges, while perseverance gives purpose and direction, ensuring we stay on course despite setbacks. While endurance kept me standing, perseverance kept me going. It was what I needed to keep putting one foot in front of the other. It's not just about staying; it's about fighting to make things better, no matter how tired you are. Perseverance is what makes you keep trying. No matter how bad things may be in your organization, your resolve to make them better even after a dozen failed attempts is what perseverance is all about. It's not just about staying in the company; it's about staying for the better, fighting the good fight! Many times on the run, I had to reset my goals and come up with different strategies to keep going, from one kilometer to another, one hill to another. The pain never subsided; I just became better! I grew in my ability to absorb it and use it as fuel to get to my destination. Endurance and Perseverance create a resilient mindset that is essential for achieving long-term success.

The X-Factor: Tenacity

As we navigate the intersection of endurance and perseverance, we encounter a powerful X-factor: tenacity. Tenacity is the quality of being persistent, determined, and unyielding in the face of adversity. It's the unwavering commitment to our goals, the refusal to give up, and the ability to bounce back stronger after every setback.

No definition, however, does justice to explain tenacity; you need to experience it for yourself and feel it on the inside. It gives you new energy and new strength, Isaiah 40:31 - "But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

Tenacity propels you beyond the physical into a state of total freedom, where circumstances and situations don't dictate your life and decisions. "I made a decision and a commitment to run a 32km, no amount of pain and pressure will deter me from that commitment, that's the goal and I am going to achieve it".

I found myself running with new strength as I got closer to the finish line; the tears had dissipated, a smile that was brighter than the sun came on my face. Not only was I finishing, but I was finishing better than I started even though my body was in worse condition. I can't explain it; you just need to experience it. It reminds me of the question of old love versus new love question. I have heard a number of people who've been married for over 40 years saying old love is better, no doubt. You've been through more, you've been hurt, you've felt neglected, but because you pushed through the tough times with endurance and perseverance, you will find yourself at a new place of tenacity, where for some weird reason you find yourself rejoicing through all the pain, and all the ups and downs you've been through, Its inexplicable.

Unfortunately, not everyone gets to experience this place, but it is a beautiful place that I wish for us all. If you think you will be happy every day at your work, at home, in your career, you are absolutely mistaken. No matter how much you love running, run long enough, and at some point in the race, your happiness will be overshadow by the pain and fatigue. You will be engulfed with thoughts of quitting and giving up, and sometimes you may even hate running in those moments. The secret is to keep going no matter how you feel. "Craig Groeschel" once said getting a divorce because you ran out of love is like changing your car because you ran out of fuel."

Tenacity in Action: A Game-Changer in All Areas of Life

Whether in professional pursuits, personal development, or facing life's challenges, tenacity is the game-changer. It propels us forward when others may falter, turning setbacks into opportunities for growth. Tenacity is the force that transforms ordinary individuals into extraordinary achievers, fueling innovation, creativity, and resilience in the face of the unknown.

In conclusion, while endurance and perseverance are crucial elements in the pursuit of success, it's tenacity that truly sets individuals apart. Embracing tenacity in all areas of life provides the strength to endure, the persistence to persevere, and the resilience to thrive in the face of adversity. So, as you embark on your journey, remember: cultivate endurance, nurture perseverance, but above all, embrace the unwavering power of tenacity. It's the secret sauce that propels you towards greatness.

#Extraordinary #MenelisiCele #Endurance #Perseverance #Tenacity