For many of us, we try to avoid failure at all costs, but what if embracing it could change everything?  Failure is a universal experience.  Truth is that failure is not actually the end…though it can sometimes feel that way.  It is more of a steppingstone, and when we move from fearing failure to embracing it, our potential for growth expands.

Talking about failure is not something a lot of us are comfortable doing.  The feelings of shame, disappointment or inadequacy from failures can linger long after the event itself.  These feelings are normal.  When we show ourselves some self-compassion, these very “negative” emotions can act as guideposts for us in the process of learning and growing from our failures.

Truth be told, failure provides us with a lot of valuable feedback.  We can reflect on this feedback by asking ourselves the following questions: 1) What can be learned from this? 2) What can I do differently next time?  The answers to these questions can help us become more resilient and can be used as motivation to act differently, try harder or take a new direction the next time around.

Having failed many times myself, I am constantly inspired by others who have shown resilience in the face of repeated failure.  JK Rowling was a single mother living in poverty.  She was rejected by the first 12 publishers before Harry Potter was finally published.  Despite battling with hardships and depression, she persisted, used her failure to refine her work and never stopped believing in her story.  Her resilience turned her failures into an awe-inspiring, global success story.

Here are some practical steps to move into embracing and learning from failure:

• Accept that failure is just another part of the journey to success in anything.
• Stay grounded in the present moment to reduce the fear of failing.
• Set realistic goals and make sure to celebrate even the smallest victory.
• Seek support from friends, mentors and professionals if needed.

Failing does not make one a failure.  If we approach failure with courage and curiosity, our failures can become a bridge to something even better.  It may not feel like it while you are in the thick of it, but our failures can be some of our greatest opportunities for growth.