You read that correctly. I am a huge failure.
And failing on the regular is probably the best thing that has ever happened to me. How does experiencing the opposite of success have an upside?
Why is failing, and admitting to it, something to be proud of?
Because at the end of every failure, despite the sting, I tried one more time.
And after that, I tried again. And eventually, I was able to reach my goal.
Getting up to try again after failing will build a unique resilience in you that can only be forged in the fires of disappointment.
I learned to be okay with imperfection, to remain curious and tenacious when challenged, and to capitalize on learning from my mistakes. Some of my best ideas were born after my initial plan of action failed.
How would you gain these skills if you don't try, and fail?
Keep your eyes on the end goal.
I have found that I can actively rebound from tough situations, move past disappointments, and handle difficult environments and people because of the thick skin I developed learning life's tough lessons.
It won't feel fair. You will be embarrassed and want to give up. Don't.
Your dedication to the process will give you the ability to see how a setback is actually a set up for something better.
Success is sweet but you will have to swallow bitter pills to taste it.
How do you get to a place where failure does not derail you mentally?
Believe in your skillset. Actively work on developing yourself and document it so that you can track your growth.
Seek counsel from other failures and learn from their story. If you can avoid a misstep because you heeded the guidance of a mentor, you will gain wisdom and quicken the path to your end goal.
Do not over-pathologize failure. It is a necessary part of life. Social media and the "trophies for everyone" mindset has made people thin-skinned and perfectionistic. Don't let the insta-filters fool you.
Be honest with yourself. It is okay to be disappointed. It is okay to be discouraged. These are normal emotions, you are human.
Lastly, know when it is time to quit. Some things are not for you. Trust your gut and know when to push the eject button. Choosing yourself and your sanity is always for the best. Martyrdom is for the birds.
"Do not judge me by successes, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again." - Nelson Mandela