DON'T EVER GIVE UP

DON'T EVER GIVE UP
Elon Musk famously said “I don’t ever give up. I would have to be dead or completely incapacitated.” 
 

 I have often said that the perception of success that inundates our lives is heavy on the success part, and light on the “never give up” part.  Our view of success is flooded with images post success: shiny photos in magazines, Instagram feeds of edited and filtered highlights, and three minute morning and late night talk show clips of fun. Behind this mirage of an end product are  endless stories of people who faced great challenges, took risks, worked days into nights, and sacrificed short term comfort for long term values. Behind all of this, I promise you will find stories that include tears, sleepless nights wondering how to get funding or pay the bills, managing the fear of failing on a lifelong dream, and hearing the stinging words of rejection echo in their minds, allowing doubt to creep in.

 

 Building something from a mere idea is hard.  There will be constant attempts to make you quit, give it all up, or question your audacity to even try.  Situations are going to challenge your patience,  your vision, and your confidence. Sometimes it might feel like the world is pelting you with imaginary bullets in an effort to make you feel insecure in your dream, but don’t let that stop you.  Never stop believing in your ability to build something of value using God’s gifts. Sometimes it feels like the bullets keep coming every moment of every day, but always remember that the choice to give up or keep going and stay the course is a choice that is reserved only for you.  Outside forces will test your will and your resolve, and you have to believe in yourself and your ability to achieve your dream. 

 

 I started KOCH almost ten years ago. There was a time in my life when I wondered if all the years I had worked on KOCH were worth it. I was a single mother, raising my son alone, and betting on my company financially and emotionally.  I sat at bank conference tables with men staring at me blankly while I pitched my idea. I had manufacturing failures, cash FLOW challenges, office space that barely fit a desk. The number of times I felt like quitting are numerous. Why didn’t I? Because I agree with Elon Musk – it just wasn’t an option.  I believed there could be nothing more disappointing for me than surrendering to the idea that my life wasn’t mine for the making. Most of all, I needed my son to see me build something of value and be financially independent. I couldn’t stand the thought of him seeing me give up. 

 
Does this mean I didn’t feel like giving up?  I did so many times. Did I feel alone?  Often.  Was I scared? A lot. Was it worth it? Absolutely.  Work worth doing is hard, and it is also the most rewarding gift in the world. We have two choices: (1) to give up and take the easy path, or (2) to never give up and take the difficult one. The interesting part of the story is that the difficult path is the one that has the power to change the world.  It's the one that shows it’s possible to get beyond difficult circumstances and create a life you love. Life won’t give up on you, if you don’t give up, and if you don’t, then someone who is watching you might not either – and that is how us girls are going to change the world. 
 
Speaking of changing the world, we have lots of fun things coming up for our KOCH community! 
 
Tune in tomorrow Wednesday, March 10th for our Tik Tok live giveaway and I’ll be answering questions about how to make our mark on the world! Our giveaways include a Madison dress, Cece top and Erica skirt
 
We also have a spring break giveaway with Much Love Sophie on Instagram. It includes a KOCH outfit for you and your best friend.  Don’t forget to follow Much Love Sophie and KOCH.
 
We are so excited about our Seaside pop-up, March 13-20. We have so many things planned. Monogrammed Dollie Jean Jacket day, s’mores, beach towels, DIY bracelet kits, and lots of special edition Tees and sweatshirts. 
 
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: "NEVER, NEVER, NEVER GIVE UP" - WINSTON CHURCHILL
 
PODCAST OF THE WEEK: LESSONS OF GREATNESS: GET REAL

18 comments

Carson

I’m here for the giveaway too! I didn’t know much about your company until I read this. AMAZING. I’m so inspired. I would love to have my own business one !

Grace

Also here from the giveaway! You’re story is incredible! My life motto is also never give up! It’s the little things!

Emily

Hey I here for the give away I love what you wrote really inspire me!’💜

1 2 3 4

Leave a comment