The truth is, some of the most successful people in the world are also the most persistent. Just think about the most successful billionaires we know of today. Do you know their stories? Do you know how much they've struggled to get there?

The answer is – a lot. There's hardly a successful, well known entrepreneur in our world that hasn't had to overcome an obstacle of some kind. In fact, the most exceptional entrepreneurs have gone through things only a few people have. But, they came out stronger than ever and some are now billionaires.

Think Bill Gates. We all know the face behind Microsoft, but how many of us know his story? Did you know that he was banned from school, gave up Harvard, and was accused of stealing the idea for Windows and even the code for DOS? (Hint, he didn't, and he paid for the DOS code). Despite all this, he got where he is now. He's one of the best known entrepreneurs worldwide and a multi-billionaire, who has given most of his fortune to charity via the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Failure Before Success

Does failure always come before success? Perhaps only if one persists. Check out the infographic below with some clear examples where stubbornness has clearly paid off.