Failure is a concept we often fear because it triggers unpleasant feelings of embarrassment, disappointment, shame and worthlessness. So avoiding it is a way in which one may feel protected from those negative emotions. In turn, if you do face it and accept it, failure inspires creative solutions and teaches us great lessons.
Accepting Failure
Give yourself permission to feel. Practice self compassion. Accepting it is the first step to overcoming it. Otherwise, you’re ensnared with the defeatist temperament, which negatively affects your performance and interaction. Use it as an opportunity to spot weaknesses, to learn and to grow.
Taking Responsibility
Identify the variables leading to failure. Not taking initiative or leaving it to chance is the approach we can change. Followed by a new plan and set of actions, we set ourselves up for success. Failing over and over is never the end. Take time to reflect on the experience and adopt a growth mindset.
Conclusion
Understanding that failure is neither fatal nor final, gives us hope and confidence in trying again. By taking responsibility, we are in control. And being in control is a small win. The small wins release dopamine and puts a spring in our step to take challenges head on. Do not fear failure. The fear is worse than the experience itself.
How are you going to deal with failure ?
Can you identify the triggers ?
What will you do when you identify the triggers ?
