Strived: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Old French 'estriver,' which means 'to struggle or strive.'
• It has roots in Latin with 'strive' deriving from 'strivere,' meaning 'to push or shove.'
• The concept of striving has existed in English since the early 14th century.

Literature

• In many stories, characters strive against great odds, symbolizing the human spirit and determination.
• Famous authors have often described the act of striving as a recurring theme in works about personal growth and resilience.
• Shakespeare often used the term in his plays, linking it to ambition and the pursuit of greatness.

Science

• In psychology, striving is linked to motivation, where individuals push against inner and outer challenges to reach their goals.
• Researchers suggest that a strong sense of purpose drives people to strive, influencing mental and emotional well-being.
• Experiments show that setting high aspirations can significantly impact one’s performance and perseverance.

Cultural Perspectives

• Different cultures celebrate the concept of striving; for example, many Asian philosophies emphasize perseverance and diligence as virtues.
• In Western culture, the 'American Dream' embodies the idea of striving for success through hard work.
• Striving is often portrayed positively in art, encouraging narratives around the journey toward success and self-improvement.

Motivational Context

• Many motivational talks emphasize the importance of striving in achieving personal and professional goals.
• Quotes from successful figures often reinforce the idea that continual striving leads to eventual success, inspiring others to push forward.
• Striving is often depicted as not just about the outcome, but about the learning and growth that occurs along the way.