You're closer than you think.

I have a friend, let's call him Daniel. He's been seeking an opportunity to work in an investment firm. To me, Daniel is hardworking, diligent, and always looking for ways to improve his portfolio. While working in other places, he has been hoping to secure his dream job. This pursuit has spanned over five years, but he believed it would come to him soon. Sometime last year, just when he thought he had hit the jackpot, he still didn't get the job. At this point, he was at his breaking point. He decided to do one last round of applications before giving up. Last week, he received an email from one of the firms he applied to: he got the job. This sounds cliché, right?

Don't forget that Daniel held onto hope for five years. He wasn't idle during this time; he faced a series of breakdowns, especially after receiving one rejection email after another. It didn't seem like he was doing enough, but he didn't stop. We've all been in situations where we've felt like Daniel, or even worse, and we're tempted to just stop, to give up, to stop trying. The fact that you haven't shows strength.

In situations like this, we have to take a step back, re-strategize, and try again. As difficult as it may be, there's definitely progress and improvement you may not be aware of. Just know that you're not stuck or moving backwards. You are one step closer to your dream.

Before you throw in the towel, tell yourself: just one more try, just one more step, and your future self will be proud you did.

Olise Esther for MANI.