Chapter 1: The Reality of Failure

Did you experience a setback today? You’re not alone.

(Picture by Bing AI)

Hey there! Did you face a failure today? Because I certainly did.

Today marked my first day in a role I've aspired to hold for quite some time. Unfortunately, I stumbled more often than I succeeded. To add to that, I attended an event where I watched individuals, who excelled in their fields, showcase their projects—projects I had contributed to, yet still felt like I faltered.

Does this resonate with you?

You finally seized your opportunity, but it didn’t go as planned. Perhaps nerves got the best of you, or you felt lost in the moment, leading to that familiar tightness in your chest when you think you’ve disappointed your team. But did you really?

I write this as much for you as for myself. I won’t pretend we nailed it. However, I’m starting to think that might not have been the main objective. Many of the aspects I struggled with were unfamiliar to me, and I didn't even realize they fell under my responsibility. Now, I’ve learned, and this knowledge will stick with me for a while. While that nagging voice in my head claims I’ll never be hired again because of my missteps, the rational part of me recognizes that my ability to address the issues—if not entirely resolve them—demonstrates growth. And I did grow. The next time I find myself in a similar situation, I’ll be more self-sufficient, efficient, and much quicker in my actions than I was today. I’ll know what to do, and I’ll execute it effectively.

And how about witnessing more talented individuals receive accolades for work I feel incapable of producing? Reflecting on this, I realize that's not the right question to ask. If you’re surrounded by those who excel in your passion, you’re doing something commendable. You've positioned yourself among those who possess the knowledge you seek. Instead, consider: How can you elevate yourself to their level? Engage with them, praise their efforts, and ask if you could support them in their upcoming endeavors. You might be surprised at how often this works. If you’re already in the same space as these accomplished individuals, chances are you’re the only one who views yourself as an outsider. You don’t need to be the principal contributor or the star of the show. You might not even be involved in the specific project everyone else is discussing. But you’re part of the community, ready for the next opportunity. Make yourself known; share your story.

You are one of them now. Take pride in that.

We have not failed; rather, we have adopted an ineffective definition of success. We will make mistakes, be the last picked, and be the newcomers. These experiences are essential for us to evolve into who we aspire to be. Perhaps one day, as leaders in our fields, we’ll reflect on our time as the newcomers and long for the freedom to fail without the weighty repercussions we face now. The fact that we “failed” today signifies that we’re on the right track. We are taking action.

Let’s take pride in our journey.

Chapter 2: Learning from Setbacks

In this inspiring video, Spanx founder Sara Blakely shares how her father's encouragement to embrace failure shaped her path to success.

Watch as Sara Blakely discusses how her father's insistence on experiencing failure propelled her to her ultimate achievements.