3 Stunning Advantages of Failure
We worship success because we want it. But we gain possibilities in the failure.
Blunders make you beautiful.
Ralph Waldo Emerson was wrong when he told his daughter, “Finish every day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and absurdities no doubt crept in; forget them as soon as you can.”
Remember blunders. Falling short is the edge of transformation.
Reflect on success:
I asked John Maxwell what he has learned from success. He chuckled and said, “Not as much as I’ve learned from failure.”
Success fuels energy. Remember wins to build courage. You see yourself at your best.
The danger of success is arrogance caused by forgetting mistakes. Ego closes your ears and opens your mouth.
Reflect on failure:
Failure offers three necessary advantages.
#1. Humility
Mistakes burst the bubble of certainty. Not knowing opens your heart.
We learn to trust others when we have mud on our face.
#2. Learning
“Those who think they know, don’t.” —Edward de Bono
Success gives answers. Failure raises questions. Vitality begins with questions.
Get the most from screw ups by asking a few key questions.
- What did I do that led to this point?
- What did I not do that led to this point?
- What will I do differently next time?
- How am I different because of this experience?
#3. Empathy
After blunders, you feel with people—not just for them.
Empathetic leaders:
- Build strong relationships that increase influence.
- Enjoy loyalty from others.
- Show people they’re valued and understood.
- Generate enthusiasm.
- Create openness to receive instruction.
Final thought:
Success elevates. Failure educates.
How can we reflect on failure without growing discouraged?
