Between Persisting and Starting Over: The Balance that Sustains Well-Being

Marcela Peterson

Anyone who has faced a change of plans or an unexpected obstacle in their career knows: persistence is a valued virtue, but it is not always enough. Sometimes, even with effort and determination, our goals become unattainable — and continuing to insist may lead to frustration, emotional exhaustion, and a loss of well-being. But there is another possible path: adjusting our goals with flexibility, without giving up personal meaning.

Research on self-regulation and lifelong adaptation shows that the balance between two processes — tenacious persistence in meaningful goals and flexibility to readjust those goals in the face of losses or changes — is essential for psychological health. Before a change, many people experience inner tension when their efforts do not produce the expected results. When they are able to reassess their goals and redirect their energy, a sense of relief and a “new path” emerges. But this transition also requires time, emotional maturity, and contextual support.

This cycle of persistence and adaptation is crucial for leaders, HR professionals, and managers dealing with people in moments of change. An employee who insists on an unrealistic goal may be demonstrating resilience, but may also be heading toward burnout. On the other hand, those who adjust their plans are not giving up — they are adapting. Recognizing this process avoids simplistic interpretations of engagement or motivation.

Looking at performance and well-being data through this lens allows for more human and strategic management. The question is not only “why did this person change direction?”, but “how are they balancing persistence and adaptation given the circumstances?”. With this understanding, it is possible to implement strategies such as support in internal career transitions, development programs that value emotional flexibility, and policies that embrace moments of professional redefinition.

Organizations that understand the value of adaptive self-regulation foster healthier and more sustainable environments. Instead of expecting a straight line of progress and static goals, they recognize that each person’s trajectory is made of adjustments, redefinitions, and new choices — and that this, far from being a problem, is a sign of maturity, health, and the ability to move forward with purpose.

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