The Points of the Creative Artists’ Code: Twenty-two - Persistence

by NDK Creative Artist

The art & entertainment industry is the business that wastes more talent than it should. Discouragement comes in so many forms from the economic to the harsh and destructive critique of those who cannot see that sustaining the determination to succeed, to complete one good work, let alone many, demands much of any human being. This article looks at the quality of persistence, and its role in helping us continue to strive.

Those who give up, never make it. Persistence is a quality much admired and respected despite what you might think. Maintain the lightness of spirit that is part and parcel of creating, protect it from those who are wary of your ability to observe and observe anyway. And if you’re betrayed be big enough to go on. That too earns respect and understanding from compassionate and rational beings.

A former Malaysian news anchorwoman once gave me a very famous quote about persistence that to this day I treasure and value. It hangs prominently where I can see and contemplate it every day. It reminds me what it takes to make it and what it takes not to make it. Perhaps you know it?

Press On

Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence.

Talent will not, nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent.

Genius will not, unrewarded genius is almost a proverb.

Education will not, the world is full of educated derelicts.

Persistence and determination are omnipotent.

In my extensive studies of the industry which spans a vast number of subjects and many decades, it has at times come to my attention about how persistence has often paid off for artists who had often been, apparently, overlooked. And yet, they kept going, and then one day, their ship came in. It would not have come in if they had not continued to ply the trade of creating, crafting and promoting their work. They are remarkable heartwarming and inspring stories. I’m not sure that it says much about our civilization’s ability to recognize and select merit, but I am sure that if they had given up, they would never have succeeded, and the fact of the matter is, each day you can keep doing it, is a day you are succeeding, even if it doesn’t seem like it.

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If you'd rather we did all the hard work, you're in luck. Here's a list of articles that are related to this one:

• The Points of the Creative Artists’ Code: Nineteen - Observe and confront life
• The Points of the Creative Artists’ Code: Eleven - The business of art & entertainment is your business
• The Points of the Creative Artists’ Code: Seven - Never invalidate another artist’s constructive work…
• The Points of the Creative Artists’ Code: Fourteen - Creating Ideal Scenes
• The Points of the Creative Artists’ Code: Sixteen - Help each other