Givers-up

Givers-up refers to individuals who abandon a task, goal, pursuit, or relationship before achieving success or completion. They are characterized by a lack of persistence, resilience, and commitment. The term implies a surrender to challenges, obstacles, or difficulties, often stemming from discouragement, lack of confidence, or a perceived lack of progress. Their actions signify a willingness to relinquish effort and potentially miss out on the rewards of perseverance. This label carries a negative connotation, suggesting a failure to overcome adversity and fulfill potential. It can also be used in the context of not believing in the value of what they are pursuing. Those considered Givers-up may be labelled as such due to quitting a process that should have been completed or for a project that was left unfinished.

Givers-up meaning with examples

• The marathon runner, exhausted at mile 20, considered himself one of the Givers-up as he contemplated quitting. His legs ached, and the finish line seemed impossibly far. Despite the cheers of the crowd, the feeling of failure and the potential for long term injury took over. He watched other runners pass by knowing they could finish if they kept going. Ultimately, pride and a strong belief in his own ability helped him to cross the finish line, which made him consider how close he was to becoming one of the givers-up.
• During the intense business competition, many startups were considered Givers-up before their first year, lacking the resources and stamina. Faced with mounting debt and market saturation, many entrepreneurs folded before seeing profits. Some felt it was better to have tried and failed than never to have tried at all. Their investors and partners often were the first to recognize the signs of impending failure, ultimately meaning these start-ups became Givers-up because of economic and business pressures.
• The student, overwhelmed by the complex calculus problem, became one of the Givers-up before attempting to work it out, choosing instead to seek help or simply leave it blank on the exam. A fear of failure prevented him from trying the solution. Believing he was not smart enough, he did not attempt the work. His lack of confidence was his undoing and as a result the problem and the exam were left unfinished. He chose immediate relief over a potential long-term reward.
• After several failed attempts to build a relationship with her estranged child, the mother became one of the Givers-up, ceasing contact completely. Despite the initial pain and rejection, her efforts were never reciprocated. She decided it was better for her mental health to move on. While some family members believed she should have continued to try and find solutions, she felt it was time to cease the effort. This came after years of heartache and unfulfilled attempts to reconcile with her child.
• The team, facing a significant deficit at halftime, was perceived to be Givers-up as the coach noticed a lack of energy and effort on their faces. Without any fight, they would be defeated. The second half turned into an easy victory for the other side. Their failure to show fight and energy meant they would never win. Despite his best efforts to motivate them, their performance proved they were willing to quit. The coach recognized the danger and disappointment in becoming givers-up.