I recently crossed the finish line of my first marathon, and it was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. But it wasn’t just about the race—it was about overcoming self-doubt, staying consistent, and refusing to quit when things got tough. Sound familiar? It’s a lot like running a business.
Someone recently described me as having “tenacity” – and it’s not the first time I’ve heard that word used about me. That got me thinking. What does it really mean to be tenacious?
Tenacity is more than just persistence. It’s about relentless determination, grit, and the refusal to back down, even when the odds feel impossible. It means showing up when it’s uncomfortable, pushing through when things get hard, and holding onto your goals even when you’re not sure you’ll make it. That word stuck with me because it perfectly captures the mindset that carried me through the marathon—and honestly, it’s the same mindset that helps me navigate the challenges of running a business as well as my most recent experience with Helene, here in Asheville. I shared more about that in an article last fall if you’d like to read it!
Tenacity is what keeps us moving forward, one step at a time, even when the path feels impossible.
Training for this marathon was a challenge, especially while dealing with the chaos and stress of Hurricane Helene repairs. But being chosen for the iDream Scholarship gave me something I could focus on—something I had control over when so much in our lives felt beyond it. It was an honor to be selected, and I felt a responsibility to follow through. Knowing I had been chosen over someone else pushed me forward, even when I wasn’t sure I could handle it. That’s what tenacity looks like in action. In business, it’s no different. Whether you’re building a brand, launching a product, or navigating setbacks, it’s that commitment to the long game that makes all the difference. When things feel out of control, having a goal gives you something steady to hold onto.
There were moments during the race when I felt completely alone. When the half marathon split from the full, I found myself at the back of the pack, and the mental game got harder. That ego hit of being last really messes with you. But I kept reminding myself: running isn’t about beating others; it’s about bettering yourself. It’s about you vs. you.
It’s the same in business. It can feel like everyone else is moving faster, achieving more, or figuring it out quicker. But progress isn’t measured by anyone else’s pace. It’s about your own growth, your own journey, and pushing through when it feels like you’re the only one struggling. Tenacity is about showing up for yourself, even when it’s tough.
Self-talk became my lifeline during the hardest parts of the race. At first, I wasn’t helping myself at all—I felt defeated and stuck in negative thinking. But I knew I had to snap myself out of it. I kept coming back to my “why,” reminding myself that I was stronger than I felt and capable of finishing.
Business is no different. Entrepreneurs often wrestle with imposter syndrome, doubts, and fear of failure. In business, we have to be our own biggest cheerleader. We have to remind ourselves why we started, who we’re serving, and that the effort is worth it—even when results feel slow. The conversations we have with ourselves shape our outcomes. If we believe we can’t do it, we won’t. But if we remind ourselves that we’re capable and resilient, we find a way forward. Tenacity isn’t just about pushing through physically; it’s about managing your mindset and refusing to let fear or doubt call the shots.
Crossing that finish line wasn’t about being fast—it was about not giving up. It was about honoring the journey and all it took to stay consistent and work hard to get there. That moment was a reminder that the effort, the persistence, and every small step along the way mattered.
In business, we often forget to celebrate the wins that don’t look flashy but represent real progress—like launching a website, landing a new client, or overcoming a tough month. These moments are just as important as the big milestones, and they deserve to be acknowledged. Because it’s these steady, consistent efforts that build momentum and shape success. And it’s tenacity that gets us there.
• Set a Clear Goal: Like training for a marathon, set achievable business milestones.
• Pace Yourself: Sustainable progress beats burnout every time.
• Embrace Community: Lean on your network when things feel hard—just like I leaned on my running crew.
• Self-Talk Matters: Keep your mindset in check. The way you talk to yourself can shape how far you’ll go.
• Celebrate Your Wins: Every small victory is progress. Acknowledge it, appreciate it, and let it fuel your next step forward.
Running that marathon reminded me that the hardest challenges often lead to the most rewarding outcomes. In business, the finish line isn’t about outpacing someone else—it’s about showing up consistently, connecting with others, offering encouragement, and embracing every moment of growth along the way. Just like how my friends, family, and fellow runners became an essential part of my support system during marathon training, your business network can be the community you lean on. Whether it’s sharing advice, offering encouragement, or simply showing up, having that circle can make all the difference. Tenacity isn’t just about reaching the end goal—it’s about trusting in the process, step by step.
As the saying goes, ‘It’s a marathon, not a sprint.’ Success—whether in running or business, comes from endurance, consistency, and the willingness to keep going even when progress feels slow. If you’re facing a challenge in your business right now, remember: the path may feel tough, but every step forward is progress. Keep going. You’re stronger and more capable than you think. And if you need support, lean into your network, share your ideas, and watch how collaboration can spark new ideas and growth. Sometimes, just voicing an idea can lead to unexpected insights and opportunities you might not have seen on your own.
Every journey is easier when shared with others who uplift, encourage, and challenge you to grow. The right support can strengthen your resolve and turn obstacles into stepping stones.