How To Fail

One of our greatest fears is failure. The possibility of failing is terrifying to the point that we abandon many important activities to avoid it. We are frightened of humiliation, disappointment, letting ourselves or others down, and worst of all, ruining our reputation.

But the reality is that not everything we do ends in success. The Divine design of creation includes failure as part of human growth. With the proper perspective, failure can even become a catalyst for greater progress and improvement.

Here are five ideas to consider:

Not producing a desired end result does not always mean that we have failed

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1) Definition of success. In today’s world, success is defined by outcome as opposed to effort. If you have invested tremendous effort but do not achieve a visible, measurable, dramatic outcome, you are deemed a failure. However, the Jewish definition of success is very different. It is not defined by any outcome but rather by effort, hard work and internal improvement and progress. Our tradition states clearly that reward for Torah study is not for those who cover the most material, but rather for those who apply themselves with sweat and toil. Not producing a desired end result does not always mean that we have failed; rather, the solid attempt and effort is itself our success.

2) Failure does not make us bad people. 

3) Failure is a learning opportunity.

4) Failure does not negate previous achievement.

5) Make it a catalyst for real growth.

So don’t be afraid of failing. If it happens, welcome it and use it to reach a new level of development.

This article is a repost from Chabad.org Authorized by Dovid Zaklikowski

©Chabad.org By Michoel Gourarie

Rabbi Michoel Gourarie lectures on a wide range of topics with a special emphasis on Personal Growth and Self Development, including self esteem, communication and relationship building. He is the director of “Bina” in Sydney, Australia.