4 Empowering Reminders for When You Feel Like Giving Up

First things first, recognize that you’re not alone in this feeling. Seriously, everyone has moments of wanting to throw in the towel. Even on my best days, that little voice can pop into my head. But what’s crucial is what you choose to do next.

Research from the University of Pennsylvania highlights that grit is the trait most closely aligned with achieving success. So, when I’m tempted to give up, here’s what I like to remind myself.

1. Giving Up is Just a Thought 🎈

Picture this: your brain tossing you suggestions like a bartender sliding down drinks at happy hour. Thoughts like giving up are just that—a suggestion. It’s a normal one, sure, but just like deciding whether or not to have that last slice of pizza, the choice of what to do with it is yours alone. 🍕

The power lies in your decision-making.

2. Discomfort is Fleeting 🌦️

Take a deep breath and keep perspective in mind. Almost every action is short-lived in the grand scheme of things, kind of like an intense but swift thunderstorm. Your workout? Over in a couple of hours. Writing that report? Done by the end of the day.

Everything, yes, everything is temporary—both the delights and the bumps in the road.

So, walk through that fleeting discomfort and emerge stronger on the other side.

3. Effort is Never Wasted 🙌

Despite the initial hesitation, I’ve never regretted putting effort into something challenging. Sure, there are days it’s like dragging a boulder uphill. But boy, is it rewarding once it’s done!

Sometimes, just having the guts to show up and do the work, even if it’s not perfect, is a stellar victory. Any progress is better than none and deserves a little fist pump. 🎉

4. Let the Universe Be the Judge 🌌

When that voice nudges me to give up, what do I do? Plain and simple—I just show up.

Is it always my best showing? Probably not, to be honest. But that’s not my focus. My mission is straightforward: put in my effort and allow outcomes to unfold on their own.

Your job? Work your magic and let the universe decide the rest.

Now go ahead, sprinkle a little bit of your own magic dust.