It was the poet Patrick Kavanagh who spoke about learning the art of not caring what others think and having the courage to stick to your beliefs.
It is a quality that Catherine Connolly exuded from the first day of this campaign.
That idea of quietly but steadfastly holding firm to contentious views is rare.
To do so with poise is even more unusual, but it is something she perfected.
However, her opponents will contend that there was an evasiveness to many of her answers.
But the result proves that her election pitch resonated and chimed with the prevailing sentiment of the majority of people who came out to vote on Friday.
It was a movement that was populated by one of the most precious political commodities, droves of young people.
Others will now try to replicate both this approach and her campaign's successful and slick social media work.
Such a move should come with a warning as that which looks simple in execution is usually the result of well-thought-out preparation.
It all suggests that her approach to the presidency will be a thoughtful and considered one.
Indeed, she has spoken about the importance of listening before making public utterances.
The experienced barrister has already pointed to the constitutional parameters of the role but added that she would be an independent president with an independent mind.
She has voiced empathy with those who did not vote for her by expressing an awareness of their concerns.
It is likely to be a theme that she will have to return to again, especially given the unprecedented number of people who registered their discontent with the political system by spoiling their vote.
Catherine Connolly has pledged to be a tireless advocate for the welfare of the people, something that will be evident in her public statements and no doubt in her regular discussions with the Taoiseach.
"I find them very thought provoking and pleasant meetings," Micheál Martin said last night when outlining how these chats typically unfold.
The Galway West TD's elevation to the office of president puts her above the political fray but she has emphasised the importance of being a voice for peace, neutrality and climate action.
The parties that helped propel her campaign ardently believe her success helps pave the way for a change of Government.
While there is no doubting the growing sense of common purpose among left-wing parties, the next general election could be four years away.
The Galway West by-election to replace Catherine Connolly in the Dáil, which is expected to take place in May, could offer a glimpse of the strength of this alliance, over six months after the presidential election.
In the short term, the most intense fallout from this election will be felt by the Fianna Fáil leader.
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Micheál Martin's decision to effusively embrace Jim Gavin's candidacy may well have shortened his time as Taoiseach.
For the first time, some within his party have stated publicly that he should step down in January 2027.
Under the current arrangements, Fianna Fáil is due to hold the position of Taoiseach until November of that year.
It was a far from ideal election from Fine Gael, but party leader Simon Harris can point to a 30% vote for a candidate who was after all a replacement for its first choice, Mairead McGuinness.
It is clear though that the Government parties exited the count result in Dublin Castle last night weakened, as an emboldened left-wing alliance believe their time in power is edging ever closer.
