I never cared for that term “staying the course” because it sounds so plain and cheap. So lacking in energy. So plodding.
But there’s merit to staying the course. It means you start something with a certain goal in mind and you stick with it until you accomplish that goal. For me, that’s very hard, and obviously why I dislike the adage. I’m more of an idea guy, and starter of things but a finisher of nothing.
Today an opportunity came up to apply for what appeared to be a perfect job in Honolulu. No sooner had I read about it, I was already imaging how everything would be once I start the job — the small apartment to start until I could get the family over, working on my business pursuits after hours, other entangled obligations before hours.
After this mental session, I already felt I had the job. I imagined how I’d talk to the owners, get out in the community and start meeting people, and so forth.
Some call it the power of positive thinking, but it’s actually false projection. And a time-waster. A fantasy for the underqualified, the disenfranchised, the migrants south of the border. The me.
The way I see it, I gotta stay the course. I have an exit plan in mind. A grand one. Should it go right, we’d be in a good position, one without employer or geographic restrictions. No relying on millionaires or billionaires.
Greatness and independence enabled by action and…staying the course.
With a singular focus on the goal, perceived opportunities (like the job on Oahu) become nothing more than disturbances. I have a personal flaw in chasing too many opportunities and never actually realizing any of them. Gotta peel away from that.
Stay the course. Mobilize and insulate. Embrace freedom. Stop chasing carrots. Be self-made.
Stay the course.