GRIT AND DETERMINATION.
The stenographer will require plenty of grit and plenty of determination to achieve success in his special calling. Do not become discouraged and believe that only a genius can make a success of shorthand. "Genius," said Helvetius, "is nothing but continued attention." "I have no genius," said Sir Isaac Newton, "it is only patient, concentrated toil that gives me success." "I can and I will," rigidly adhered to, will work wonders. Be persistent in your studies, in your practice and in your work. Do not practice for three hours today and then not touch your shorthand or your typewriter for two weeks or more. One half-hour per day of regular practice will do more than ten hours of desultory work. James Whitcomb Riley wrote, "The most essential factor for success is persistence; he is richer for the battle with this world in any vocation who has great determination and little talent, rather than his more talented brother with great talent, perhaps, but little determination." Grit has made many a man famous, and persistence in your shorthand studies and a determination to master the subject thoroughly will lead you into higher walks of life. Don't look back, but look forward, and work on. In the words of D'Alembert, we would say to the stenographer, "If you are tempted to turn back—go on, sir—go on!"
