Failure is defined as the lack of success. A blessing is defined as something that is conducive to our happiness or welfare. So, how do these two concepts blend together? What is meant by failures can be a blessing?
As I think back on my life, failures are very much a part of who I am and what I have become. I failed at making the varsity softball team in high school. I was fired from one of my favorite jobs. My failures are too numerous to mention, and I continue to experience them on an ongoing basis.
I am certain however, that each of my failures has made me a better person. That is where the blessings come into play. Because of my experiences, I have become determined and persistent.
Recent Failure
Recently, I was working on a task where I did my research, learned, and created. The result was failure, and my work was rejected. Let me be clear, this did not happen once, it happened over and over during a several week period. So, what did I do? I did more research, continued learning and creating. The outcome was more “failure”.
The word failure is in quotes because I do not feel like a failure. I failed at a task, but I am not a failure. I do feel challenged, frustrated and overwhelmed. These are the times when that positive self-talk is imperative. Words like “I can figure this out”, “I can do this” are very purposeful. They replaced thoughts that jump into my head like “this is too hard,” “I really don’t have a clue what I am doing”, “I am not capable of doing this.” Those words are too destructive.
Failure is What Defines Us
I have heard the saying “failure is what defines us.” I do believe this. How we choose to handle failure influences our character. My failures have made me a stronger, happier, and a more resilient person.
In summary, here are some things to remember when you fail:
- Failures can be a blessing, they can lead to success
- Replace the negative destructive thoughts with intentional positive ones
- Your reaction to failure is what defines you as a person.
How will you choose to react?
I agree Gail. I feel that each one has helped me to grow, both personally and professionally.