Continuing steadfastly is an important part of achieving success. The term CONTINUE STEADFASTLY can be broken down into two crossword solutions: PERSEVERE (9 letters) and PERSIST (7 letters). To PERSEVERE means to continue in a course of action despite difficulty or delay in achieving success, while to PERSIST means to continue firmly or obstinately in a course of action in spite of opposition, importunity, or warning. Both words imply a strong determination to keep going despite any obstacles that may arise.