Emotional Maturity | Failing Forward
- Chris Barber
- Sep 26, 2023
- 3 min read
We've all been there. That stomach-churning moment when you realize that despite your best efforts, you've failed. Maybe it was a project that didn’t pan out, a startup that fizzled out, or perhaps a relationship that just didn’t go the distance. In these moments, it's tempting to wallow in negativity and let failure define us. But what if I told you that your failure in certain areas could be the key ingredient responsible for your biggest successes? Welcome to the concept of failing forward.
Understanding Failing Forward
At its core, failing forward is about shifting your perspective on failure. Instead of viewing it as an endpoint, it's seen as a valuable learning experience that can propel you to the next level. This concept is about making progress through our mistakes and learning to use them as opportunities for growth.
The legendary Thomas Edison famously once said, "I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work." Edison may not have realized it, but he was essentially defining what it means to fail forward. His unyielding spirit and refusal to be deterred by failure eventually led to the invention of the light bulb. Had he given up after his first, second, or even 1,000th attempt, our world would certainly be a very different place!
The Benefits of Failing Forward
1. Embracing a Growth Mindset: Those who adopt a growth mindset believe that abilities can be developed over time. Every failure, in this view, is a lesson and an opportunity to grow. When you start to view setbacks as opportunities, you foster resilience and determination.
2. Overcoming the Fear of Failure: If we treat every failure as a stepping stone, the fear of failure diminishes. The pressure to be perfect all the time is alleviated, and you become more willing to take risks.
3. Gaining Experience: Have you ever heard someone say that experience is the best teacher? It can certainly be a silver lining in any failure you may have, provided you have the right perspective. Indisputably stated, experience equips you with invaluable real-world insights that can't be demonstrated in a classroom setting.
How to Fail Forward Effectively
Failing forward isn't about blindly celebrating every setback. It's about extracting value from our mistakes. Here's how to do it right:
1. Reflect – After a setback, take a step back (bars!) What went wrong? Was it the approach, the execution, the idea itself, or external factors? Reflecting helps you gain clarity and determine what needs to change.
2. Accept Responsibility – It’s easy to blame external factors for our failures. While they can play a part, it's crucial to own up to your role in the outcome. This isn’t about being overly hard on yourself but about acknowledging your areas of opportunity.
3. Implement Changes – With the newfound knowledge from your reflection, adjust your strategy. Maybe you need to take a different approach, gain a new skill, or collaborate with someone else.
4. Stay Persistent – Don’t let one setback (or even several) deter you from your goal. The only real failure comes from quitting. Keep in mind setbacks are a part of the journey. And the best part about a setback is the comeback that succeeds it.
Real-Life Application
Consider the story of Sir James Dyson, the founder of the Dyson company, known for its revolutionary vacuum cleaners. He created 5,127 prototypes before landing on the design that would change the industry and ultimately make him one of the richest human beings in the world. That's 5,126 failures before a success! Imagine if he had stopped at the 1,000th or even the 5,000th attempt. He might not have reached the innovation he's known for today.
Final Thoughts
In a world that often celebrates perfection, it's essential to remember that most success stories have a series of failures behind them. Every mistake, every setback, and every "no" can be a stepping stone to your "yes." So, the next time you face an obstacle or a failure, remind yourself to fail forward. It doesn’t matter how many times you come up short (think Sir James Dyson). There’s no shame in repeatedly “getting it wrong” when you are truly applying yourself. That’s what it means to fail forward. Embrace the lessons, make the necessary changes, and continue marching towards your dreams with the wisdom that only experience can provide.
Chris Barber is a freelance writer and contributor to the blog. His desire is to write scripts and pursue his dreams of story telling. If you would like to contact Chris with an opportunity and or feedback, visit our Meet The Team page.
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