Stubbornness is one of those qualities that can be interpreted as either a virtue or a shortcoming, depending on its motivations and our personal perspective. Without a certain degree of willfulness, many of history’s most memorable names would have given up the first time someone expressed doubt in their dreams or ideas.
So obstinacy has its merits, to be sure. But on the other hand, being stubborn can stunt our personal growth when we use it to shut our minds to other suggestions and possibilities. This is the type of stubbornness that’s often associated with pride, another potential character flaw.
We’ve all been in arguments with people who are determined to cling to their stance, no matter how much reason or logic we attempt to gently disarm them with. This kind of aimless headstrong behavior can prevent us from broadening our horizons and reflecting on areas where we can stand to improve.
However, if we use stubbornness as a method of perseverance while keeping our minds flexible and open to input from others, it can become an invaluable asset. Here are 13 quotes about the potential benefits and drawbacks of this contentious trait.
There is a stubbornness about me that can never bear to be frightened at the will of others. My courage always rises with every attempt to intimidate me.Jane Austen
There’s none so blind … as those who will not listen.Neil Gaiman
I have never had to face anything that could overwhelm the naive optimism and stubborn perseverance I was blessed with.Sonia Sotomayor
Those who never retract their opinions love themselves more than they love truth.Joseph Joubert
It gives me great pleasure, indeed, to see the stubbornness of an incorrigible nonconformist warmly acclaimed.Albert Einstein
I commend your stubbornness / Without it, we’d never got this far.Weezer
A stubborn mind conduces as little to wisdom, or even to knowledge, as a stubborn temper to happiness.Robert Southey
Being stubborn can be a beneficial personality trait in some situations, especially when taking a stand and holding onto your position is important. But sometimes stubbornness is merely a way to punish someone.Berit Brogaard
Obstinacy is ever most positive when it is most in the wrong.Suzanne Curchod
Many are stubborn in pursuit of the path they have chosen, few in pursuit of the goal.Friedrich Nietzsche
Just because a stubborn person isn't easily swayed by opinions, or resists the path of pleasing others, does not mean he or she is self-centered. It is good to be able to have a stubborn side so you can stick to your true values without allowing the opinions of others to move you.Susan Kocab
All men may err; but he that keepeth not his folly, but repenteth, doeth well; but stubbornness cometh to great troubleSophocles
I like to say I’m determined; some people would just call it stubborn. It depends on your perspective.Peggy Whitson
Featured image credit: Mikhail Seleznev/ iStock
