One of the interesting things I’ve found about life—all aspects of life—is that it keeps moving forward, it keeps changing. Every day brings something new, something different.

When you get past the fear that holds you back and find the courage to move forward, the work is not done. You must keep moving forward. To get where you want to go, you need to have the determination to do.

Successful people have the determination to move forward. They have the strength to keep going through difficult times. Something inside keeps them moving forward.

US President Abraham Lincoln was an excellent example of determination. Though he lost businesses and fought bankruptcy, he never quit. Though he lost many elections, he never lost sight of his goal of becoming president. Though he was adamantly opposed by many, he stuck to his principles and lead the country through a tremendously difficult time. He was a man of integrity. He never gave up. He persevered. He showed extreme resolve. He had the determination to do.

Jim Collins, in his influential book  Good to Great, talks about how a Level 5 leader “Acts with quiet, calm determination; relies principally on inspired standards, not inspiring charisma, to motivate. Demonstrates an unwavering resolve to do whatever must be done to produce the best long-term results, no matter how difficult.” They have the determination to do.

As I wrote last week, you need the courage to make the decision to get moving; after that, things get done by sheer will. You need to decide you will do the necessary work to accomplish your goals and desires. Dream big, and then go out and do what needs to be done.

Questions: Why is it important for you to persist? What is the source of your determination? Please leave a comment in the space below.

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The Product Management Perspective: Many times, it’s the sheer will of the product team that makes a company successful. Though product managers and product owners often have to do things we don’t necessarily like to do, the mere doing makes all the difference. The determination to do what needs to be done could make all the difference with your products.