Once you have defined parameters for quitting, it is time to get to work. Successful people lean into the dip. Do not be passive. Be aggressive, push harder and change the rules. Under most circumstances pulling through the dip is not a question of being good enough. Instead how dedicated are you? If you want to be the best at anything the answer better be complete. The dip is not kind to those who waiver.
There are a few tools to help you survive. First, even if it feels excessive, return regularly to your plans for quitting. Are you quitting everything you should be quitting? There is a difference between fighting your way through the dip, and languishing in an unprofitable endeavor. For each task on your list ask yourself, “does this further my end goals?” If the answer is no you must quit.
Second, recognize the positive situation at hand. At times the dip can be discouraging, which is why most people don’t emerge on the other side. The repeated theme of The Dip is adversity creates scarcity, scarcity creates value. When you get frustrated, Godin reminds, “adversity is an ally, the harder it gets, the better chance you have of insulating yourself from competition.” Always keep in mind we get frustrated in the dip for the same reason the end reward is so exponentially great, because the curve to success is so steep. If you can see this barrier as an advantage you are one step closer to success.
Most importantly, build a support team. As we have seen, success in the dip requires specialization. A support team rounds out your skill set, but it also gives you the encouragement to continue your own trek up and out of the dip. Many of us get trapped into believing we can do everything better, but the most successful people surround themselves with the brightest, most talented team available. “Giving up control and leaning into the organization gives you leverage” says Godin. This step is non-negotiable. Take a look at any model for success. Even those who developed the work alone, such as Hemmingway or Bob Dylan, had a network to lean on for encouragement and inspiration.
This process does not guarantee success. Much of that is left to your fortitude and discipline in the face of adversity. But planning ahead and coming armed with these tools will certainly improve your odds.
Note: This article is part 3 in a 3 part series on Seth Godin’s book The Dip. If you missed it, go back to part 1 and part 2.
To read more about The Dip I suggest you purchase The Dip by Seth Godin. Seth is a writer/blog/marketing evangelist with several best selling books on business and marketing. I also recommend checking out his blog and his book website for The Dip.