When things start to get hard, we need to persevere through the adversity. Many people give up on following their dreams because the work becomes too difficult, tedious, or tiresome — but often, we’re closer to the finish line than we may think, and if we push just a little harder, we will succeed.

If we go through life thinking that we can’t do something just because we have failed at doing it in the past, we’re living with a fixed mindset or a mental block.

We should not let other people tell us that we can’t do something, and we should not hold onto the assumption that we can’t grow and learn from past failures.

We have to let go of our limiting beliefs in order to make the breakthroughs that are required for our ultimate success.

The hallmark of a highly successful person is his character. He is fiercely responsible, owning his choices and accepting the consequences of his actions, no matter the personal cost. He is completely honest with himself and others in all situations. He has high standards and expects the best from himself and everyone around him. He faces his fears, thinks independently, and lives outside his comfort zone.

He is clear about what’s important and what is not. He knows what he wants, why he wants it and the road that will take him there. He demonstrates self-mastery by thinking long-term, delaying gratification, and doing what must be done when it needs to be done. He outworks his competition and makes a habit of putting into something far more than he expects to take out. He insists on earning his rewards in life and refuses to seek or accept something for nothing.

Our character is the essence of who we are. It is the sum total of our thoughts and habits, our vices and virtues. Character isn’t part of our DNA. Rather, it is something that develops throughout our lives with each and every choice we make.

“Character consists of what you do on the third and fourth tries.” — James A. Michener

“It is not wanting to win that makes you a winner; it is refusing to give up.”

“I refuse to quit because I haven’t tried all possible ways yet.” — Unknown

“You’re a fighter. Look at everything you’ve overcome in the past. Don’t give up now.” — Olivia Benson

“Circumstances don’t defeat you — you defeat yourself when you give up.” — Jonathan Lockwood Huie

“Winners never quit, and quitters never win.” — Vince Lombardi

“Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, vision cleared, ambitions inspired, and success achieved.” — Helen Keller who knew something about the  character.