striving

Striving is the ongoing effort to achieve a goal through persistent action. In psychology, it refers to the sustained motivational process that drives individuals to pursue valued outcomes, often involving planning, self-regulation, and long-term persistence. Striving is related to concepts such as ambition, motivation, grit, and resilience, but emphasizes continuous, goal-directed behavior over time rather than a single attainment.

Motivation behind striving can be intrinsic, driven by personal interest, satisfaction, or a sense of meaning, or extrinsic, prompted by external rewards or pressures. Striving can be adaptive when it leads to skill development, achievement, and well-being, but it can be maladaptive if it becomes excessive or misaligned with values, contributing to stress, burnout, or unhealthy comparison with others.

Cultural and contextual factors influence how striving is perceived and pursued. Some environments encourage persistent striving and mastery, while others emphasize balance, harmony, or collective well-being. In education and work, striving is often supported through goal setting, feedback, and opportunities for mastery; however, excessive striving without regard for well-being can have negative consequences.

Research on striving intersects with studies of motivation, self-regulation, and personality. Measures often assess persistence, goal-directed behavior, and related constructs such as grit. The concept remains a broad descriptor of the effort people invest to move toward their chosen aims, shaped by values, resources, and perceived control over outcomes.

See also: ambition, diligence, perseverance, motivation, self-regulation, goal setting.