When to raise a white flag—30DBC Day 7

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White Flag 300x231 When to raise a white flag—30DBC Day 7As I was growing up, in Japan, I have always been told “Never, never give up!” If you are familiar with Japanese culture, you know it’s a very Japanese sentiment. We say “Ganbare (Persevere)” all the time, in many different situations. It’s a quite useful phrase, actually.

When something isn’t working, I’d try to fix it somehow. First, I’d assess what exactly is wrong, and then see if I can fix it. If I can fix it, great. But what do you do if you just can’t? Do you just throw it out, ask others to help, or ???

When I’m going through a tough time, I just feel like giving up. I’m pretty strong-minded, and combined with my Japanese upbringing, “giving up” doesn’t come naturally to me.

But I’m starting to wonder maybe this is the sign that I should give in and surrender…

There is something I really wanted, but now it doesn’t look like it’s going to happen. Do I keep going until the last minute, or should I raise my white flag and say, “Sorry, I can’t do it”?

How do I know when to surrender and when to persevere?

  • markdavidson

    One thing I’ve learned from close to a lifetime of playing strategy simulations is that often a tactical retreat means ultimately defeating an opponent or winning a game.

    A tactical retreat or a break in simulated warfare can give us the time we need to build up additional resources, figure out a new plan of attack or to throw our opponent off-balance.

    Retreating is entirely different than giving up. Amass resources. Plan a new attack. Never give up or surrender.

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