Persistence or tenacity is the disposition to persevere in spite of difficulties, discouragement, or indifference.  Don’t be known as a good starter but a poor finisher!

There is often a wonderful excitement when starting something new.  It is important to maintain that passion throughout the course of an assignment, especially when difficulties arise or the project encounters negative thinkers or those who lack the commitment to persevere. 

We all want to get new projects off to a strong start, but it is equally important to stay engaged throughout the process – to push the project forward when necessary especially as it nears the finish line.  Good process will help immeasurably, but so will your passion to see the project to function. 

For me, and for many general managers, the red flag word is “never.”  Don’t say you’ll “never” be able to overcome the obstacles – unless you have truly analyzed each obstacle and demonstrated in a fact-based way that they are truly insurmountable.  “Never” is the ultimate challenge to me.