Persistence Over Perfection: A Quiet Force Every Teacher Needs

Have you ever felt like you're doing everything you can—and it's still not enough?

The lessons, the grading, the meetings, the initiatives. You start the year full of vision and energy, but by mid-fall, it feels like you’re just trying to keep your head above water.

You're not alone.

This week on the Why Edify Podcast, we explore the often overlooked—but deeply powerful—trait that keeps teachers going long after the spark of ambition dims: persistence.

🎧 Listen to the Episode Here

🎥 Watch the Episode on YouTube

What You'll Learn:

• The real difference between ambition and persistence
• How to use “strong steps” to create momentum in both teaching and life
• Practical strategies for students and teachers to stay on track
• A daily affirmation to ground you when things feel heavy

Featured Quote:

"Ambition is the path to success. Persistence is the vehicle you arrive in." – William Erdely IV

Teacher Reflection Prompt:

Where in your teaching or personal life could you replace frustration with forward motion using one strong step?

Grab a sticky note or journal and answer this:

What’s one small, doable step I can take today that will help me keep going?

Take It Further:

🔗 Join the Strong Teachers Lounge — a free community where we reflect, share resources, and grow together.
📘 Explore the Strong Teachers Course (free for Lounge members!)
💬 Share this episode with a colleague who could use a boost today.

Because persistence isn’t glamorous. It’s not flashy. But it’s the difference between burnout and breakthrough.
Let’s keep moving—one strong step at a time.