STRIVES meaning and definition

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The Power of Strive: What Does it Really Mean?

In today's fast-paced, goal-driven society, the concept of striving is more relevant than ever. But have you ever stopped to think about what striving really means? Is it just a synonym for "working hard" or is there something deeper at play?

Defining Strive

According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, to strive means "to make an effort in spite of difficulties and opposition." It's the act of pushing through challenges, obstacles, and setbacks to achieve a goal. When we strive for something, we're not just trying; we're actively working towards it with determination and perseverance.

The Psychology Behind Strive

Research suggests that striving is closely linked to motivation, self-efficacy, and resilience. When we set goals and work towards them, our brains are flooded with dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This reinforces the behavior, encouraging us to continue striving for more.

Additionally, striving allows us to build confidence and develop a sense of control over our lives. By tackling challenges head-on, we demonstrate to ourselves that we're capable of overcoming adversity, which can lead to increased self-esteem and overall well-being.

The Benefits of Striving

So, what are the benefits of striving? For one, it helps us:

Develop resilience: When we face setbacks or failures, we learn to bounce back and adapt to new circumstances.
Build confidence: As we achieve small victories, our self-belief grows, empowering us to take on even more challenges.
Cultivate a growth mindset: Striving fosters a sense of curiosity and openness to learning, helping us grow both personally and professionally.
Achieve goals: The most obvious benefit: striving helps us achieve our goals and aspirations, leading to a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment.

Striving in Real-Life Scenarios

So, how do we apply the concept of striving to real-life situations? Here are some examples:

In your career, strive for promotions or new opportunities by taking courses, networking, or volunteering.
In your personal life, strive to develop healthy habits like regular exercise, meditation, or reading.
When facing a challenge or setback, strive to learn from the experience and use it as an opportunity for growth.

Conclusion

Striving is more than just working hard; it's about pushing through difficulties to achieve our goals. By understanding what striving really means, we can harness its power to drive motivation, build resilience, and cultivate a growth mindset. So, the next time you're faced with a challenge or obstacle, remember: strive for excellence, and you'll be amazed at what you can accomplish.

I hope this article provides valuable insights into the concept of striving!