The word failure emotes so many negative emotions for people. The disappointment, frustration, shame, guilt, fear, sadness, hopelessness, anger, and regret can all come up. These emotions can be paralyzing and cause people to feel stuck. However, just as failure can evoke negative emotions, positive emotions can also be present.
Tapping into these positive emotions can be a game changer when it comes to experiencing failure. Failing forward is a concept that emphasizes learning from failures and using them as stepping stones for future success. Some of the positive emotions that can occur from failure are relief, determination, humility, resilience, learning, motivation, acceptance, and gratitude.
There are several examples of women who have had public failures, but did not allow the challenge to stop them from moving forward. One example is Vanessa Williams who made history in 1983 by becoming the first African American woman to be crowned Miss America. However, she resigned from her position in 1984 due to a scandal involving the publication of unauthorized nude photos of her. This iconic beauty went on to perform on Broadway, have a Grammy nominated music career, act in several Blockbuster movies, owns a fashion line, and is known for her philanthropic work. This is a super example of failing forward!
Here are tips on how to make failing forward a normal practice in every area of your life.
ANALYZE THE FAILURE
Take the time to reflect on what went wrong and why. Identify the root causes of the failure and consider what you could have done differently. This analysis will help you gain valuable insights that you can apply in future situations.
EMBRACE THE MINDSET OF LEARNING
View failures as opportunities to learn and grow rather than setbacks. Understand that failures are a natural part of the learning process.
ADJUST YOUR APPROACH
Use the lessons learned from your failure to adjust your approach and develop a new strategy. Consider what changes you can make to increase your chances of success in the future. Be open to trying new methods and techniques.
SEEK FEEDBACK
This is huge as coachability is the number one reason why people fail. Because how can a person improve if no one can tell them anything? Reach out to mentors, colleagues, or friends for feedback on your approach and ideas for improvement. External perspectives can provide valuable insights and help you see the challenge from a different angle.
SET NEW GOALS
Based on your analysis and adjustments, set new goals for yourself that align with your revised
approach.
TAKE ACTION
Put your new plan into action and be proactive in tackling the challenge. Don’t let the fear of failure hold you back. Use your past experiences to fuel your motivation and drive towards success. The Bible has a scripture in Romans 8:28 which says, “All things are working together for your good.” This scripture is a great focus for failing forward as it says ALL things not just the good things. Failure does not mean don’t do it again. It simply means don’t do it that way.
Dr. Sabrina Jackson, “The People Expert” helps people with people, even if
that person is themselves. She is a speaker, TV/radio personality, author, and
life coach seen on Fox 2 Weekly with Mental Health Mondays. Follow her on
Instagram @ThePeopleExpert_ website: sabrinajackson.com
