I’ve been called stubborn a time or two, but I swear it is only by people who don’t know the difference between stubborn and persistent! I believe we should all avoid being stubborn and strive to be persistent. The world is not an easy place so persistence is essential. Persistence gets us over hurdles, through tough times, past confusion, and farther down the road to success. Stubbornness just gets us into trouble!

If you are persistent:

1. You doggedly pursue results and are willing to consider different ways to get there
2. You may repeat yourself in an effort to persuade
3. You ask questions sincerely and listen eagerly for new information 
4. You are eager to learn, are open to new ideas, and will change direction or method upon hearing something new and relevant to the situation at hand
5. You may drive people crazy with your determination, energy, and relentless pursuit

If you are stubborn:

1. You doggedly hold to a single position or course of action
2. You repeat yourself whether anyone is listening or not
3. You ask few questions and can be quite vocal about how little you care for the opinions of others
4. You have no intentions of learning, hearing new ideas, or moving away from your firmly stated position or plan
5. You will drive people crazy with your inability to hear, learn, and change in any way

To me, the difference is enormous and I hope it is clear to you! I also hope I don’t drive you too crazy with my determination, energy, and relentless pursuit of results!