As we reach the middle of the academic year, it is timely to consider the key character strength of perseverance. 

The ability to persevere with a task, irrespective of what the task is, heightens our ability to strive for personal success. There are many instances in the classroom and beyond, where challenges and obstacles are presented to test us. 

The ability to persevere and continue with sustained effort often leads to a greater feeling of accomplishment on completion of a task. Perseverance requires sustained effort even if there are obstacles in the way. In a classroom setting, perseverance is linked to more positive behaviour and consequently, stronger relationships.

A tangible means of working towards greater perseverance is to set realistic goals. This ties in with our focus on Personal Excellence at King’s. Could you set a goal for a certain drill at sports practice? Could you set a goal for time spent practicing your musical instrument? Could you set a goal for time spent working on an assignment?

The goal is not necessarily to be the best but to be your best. Persistence and perseverance when something is difficult will lead to Personal Excellence.