Perseverance is the quiet hero of every success story. It doesn’t shout or demand attention; it simply shows up when life feels overwhelming, when doubt creeps in, and when confidence is shaken. For many of us, perseverance isn’t about taking giant leaps forward. It’s about steady, shaky steps, even when the path feels uncertain.

Recently, my confidence wavered deeply. I was questioned in an area where I’m still finding my footing, and the sting of it hit harder than I expected. To make things worse, I unintentionally hurt someone I care about. I wasn’t fully confident in this area, however so proud of what I accomplished but the news amplified my self-doubt. When the holidays arrived, I thought the break would be what I needed to reset, but even the festive season wasn’t enough to shake the feeling. 

For weeks, I wrestled with myself, questioning not just my abilities but if I belong. What eventually began to pull me out wasn’t a dramatic epiphany—it was the people around me. Trusted friends and mentors reminded me who I am, what I’ve accomplished, and the value I still have to offer. Slowly, I started to find my footing again. I’m not fully “there” yet, and honestly, I may never be. It may just be something I avoid for a while.  But what I’ve learned is that perseverance doesn’t require perfection—it just requires the next step forward, no matter how unsteady.

When Confidence Wavers

Confidence is a tricky thing. It ebbs and flows, sometimes feeling unshakable and other times vanishing without a trace. What I’ve come to understand is this: you don’t need confidence to move forward. What you need is courage—the willingness to act, even when fear and doubt are loud.

For me, routine often becomes my anchor when confidence wavers. I’ve built habits that pour positivity and purpose back into my work and my life. But just as important is reflection—taking the time to ask myself what went wrong, what I can learn, and how I can grow.

I also lean on a circle of people who support me unconditionally but are not afraid to be honest. Their kindness is matched by their candor, and their feedback reminds me that mistakes don’t define me—they refine me.

Failing Forward

One of my biggest challenges has always been perfectionism. My brain insists on chasing this elusive ideal, even though I know it doesn’t exist. Perfectionism has brought me to the brink of anxiety attacks more times than I care to admit—especially when stepping outside my comfort zone. Whether it’s taking the stage or collaborating with others, I carry this heavy fear of letting people down.

But here’s the truth I’ve had to embrace: failure isn’t the opposite of success—it’s proof that I’m trying. Every misstep has taught me something I needed to know, even if the lesson stung at first. Failure is what moves me closer to where I want to be. Slowly but surely, I’m learning to see imperfection not as a flaw but as a stepping stone.

Celebrating Progress

One of the most profound lessons I’ve learned is how easily we overlook our own progress. Too often, we think, Once I reach this goal, I’ll feel successful. But when we get there, we raise the bar and move the goalpost.

I recently came across a concept in The Gap and the Gain that shifted my perspective. Instead of measuring yourself against a moving target (the gap), measure yourself against where you started (the gain). That small mindset shift can be transformational.

I’ve realized how important it is to pause and celebrate the wins—no matter how small. Simply acknowledging progress builds resilience and reminds us how far we’ve come.

Rewiring Your Mindset

Positive self-talk has also been a game-changer for me. Studies on neuroplasticity show that our brains can rewire themselves through consistent, intentional thought patterns. By replacing negative self-talk with affirmations and reminders of our worth, we can literally reshape the way we think.

Perseverance isn’t about never falling—it’s about rising, again and again. When confidence falters, courage steps in. When failure looms, growth takes its place. And when doubt whispers, we remind ourselves that even shaky steps forward are steps nonetheless.

So, if you’re feeling unsure or stuck, take that next step—however small. Lean on the people who see your potential, celebrate how far you’ve come, and remind yourself that perseverance is about the journey, not perfection. Your story is still unfolding, and every chapter matters.