Why Being Tough Is Better Than Being Stubborn?
There are almost 8 billion of us now, and it’s incredible how each one of us is different than the others. The way we think, the way we are, the things we like are all different from one another. There are so many personality traits that it’s mind-boggling. For the purposes of this post, we are going to look at the attitude of being stubborn. We are also going to discuss how it might be better to be tough instead.
So, what does it mean to be stubborn? Well, it’s an attitude where you refuse to change your views or beliefs. You could say that it is a defensive strategy of the mind, which likes to maintain the status quo. In some situations, this quality might actually help you. For instance, if you want to do something particular, and people try to stop you, stubbornness will actually allow you to stand your ground. You won’t be swayed by other people’s opinions or negativity.
However, if you show stubbornness in every situation and decision of life, that may not be wise. It has to come with limits. It is important to listen to other people’s valuable insights and opinions because let’s face it, nobody knows everything. So, what you need to be is “tough” and not “stubborn”. You might think that both of these are relatively the same but there is a huge difference. And that may dictate how you shape your life.
How Is Being Tough Different From Being Stubborn?
The difference lies in the way you act in different situations. Let’s say you are trying to take on a new direction in life because your heart really wants to do that. Now, it’s only obvious that you will receive all sorts of opinions from people. Especially your family and friends. But the thing is, many people are pessimistic by nature. So, they always express their doubts and concerns no matter how good your plan may be.
Being able to resist their negativity and still believe in yourself makes you a tough and powerful person. This is actually good. Imagine if popular entrepreneurs like Elon Musk, Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, and others had listened to their doubters. They would have never achieved what they managed to achieve and the world would have been a completely different place. Therefore, believing in yourself, standing up for yourself, and trying to do what you think is best for yourself is a necessity. In this case, you are being tough, not stubborn.
However, people make mistakes when they start thinking that they don’t need to hear what others have to say at all, or that they don’t need motivation or guidance. In this case, you are being a stubborn person and nothing good can come of it. Again, there is no human being on the planet who is an expert at everything. Such a perfect human does not exist. Only by sharing ideas and listening to others can we move forward. That’s literally how we have managed to build a civilization for ourselves.
Whom Should You Ask For Guidance?
Now that we have established the difference between being stubborn and tough, the next question that naturally arises is whom you should ask for guidance and help. Of course, you have multiple options in your life. There might be many people you can look up to. But you need to be smart in choosing the right person. Every project or situation will be different. So, it only makes sense to ask someone who is an expert on that project or situation. That way, you will learn the ins and outs of it and grow as a result.
But if the situation doesn’t require expertise, then you might need someone who can motivate you or encourage you to do your best. Someone who understands you, your needs, dreams, desires, and is able to stand with you no matter what. Someone who knows your weaknesses and is able to make you aware of them. Usually, these are your friends, coaches, mentors, or counselors. If and when you find the right person, you can’t imagine how beneficial their guidance will prove to be. It can literally be the difference between success and failure.
So, no matter what, you should keep your ears open for these kinds of people. Don’t be stubborn, be tough. And make sure you apply the right suggestion, whether it comes from your heart, or someone else.
