“Many of life’s failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.” – Thomas Edison
As I look back on my life, I can vividly remember times when I gave up and threw in the towel. Defeated, depressed, and disastrous to my own future. I wish I had a “do over”, but that is not possible. I am left to wonder what would have happened if I had persevered. Was my victory just inches away? This I do know, there are times when the decision to quit should not be made.
Here are 4 times in life when you should not make the decision to quit. I learned this short acrostic several years ago, and it has served me well. I hope it will help you. The acrostic is H.A.L.T.
There ARE times to quit. When you have done your best and there are no more changes that can make your efforts more successful, then change your course. But never quit or change course when one, or more, of this conditions limits your thinking. During those times, HALT!
Never quit when you are:
Hungry – When you are hungry your system is craving food, not flight! Hunger limits your ability to think clearly. All you are thinking about is food. So when you are hungry, EAT!
Angry – When you are angry, you can do some really stupid things, because you are in attack mode. I remember when I was a kid about 10 or 11 years old. I was selected as a member of the All Star Baseball Team for our Boys Club. The coach didn’t have me in the starting line up, and I got angry, then stupid. I was so mad that I packed my glove and shoes and went home. Yes, I really did! I rode my bike the few miles home. About half-way home, I began to regret my stupidity. But, what could I do? I sulked for a while, endured the jokes my teammates threw at me, but I couldn’t undo what I had done. That was over 50 years ago, and I still regret it. When you are angry, analyze why, and fix it, but control yourself and don’t get stupid!
Lonely – I remember several times when I allowed my feelings of loneliness, isolation, and betrayal of friends to get the best of me and I quit! When you are lonely, go find someone who needs your help and help them out. You’ll feel better instantly! Never quit because of feelings of loneliness.
Tired – Low energy will keep you from making wise decisions that require effort. When you are tired, try exercising. I know that exercise often energizes me. When you are super tired, be like the Frenchman who said, “I have so much to do today that I must take a nap!” Rest is restorative. Try it, you’ll like it! Never decide to quit when you are tired.
If you have already quit, and wish you had not, get tighten your belt and get back in the game. You can’t go back and start over again, but you can re-start and make a brand new end!
I hope this H.A.L.T. lesson helps you as much as it is helping me!
Tomorrow is a new day, make it a great one! I hope to see you at the top!
Danny
P.S. I would love to hear your comments on this post – especially if it helps you keep on keeping on. And remember, any grammatical or spelling mistakes are simply my gift to you!