Failing versus Learning How to Make It Happen

Happy Day, my Friends!

Today, I want to share something that has sparked my excitement and can potentially transform how we approach our goals.

Most people, myself included, often feel a sense of failure when we don’t achieve our desired outcomes. This feeling of failure can lead to self-imposed shame, low self-esteem, and diminished confidence. However, as I journey toward becoming the best version of myself, I’m learning to see these moments not as failures but as opportunities to refine my approach.

At the beginning of this year, I set a goal to publish two blogs and a monthly newsletter for WellBeing w/Coach Edna. While I’ve been consistent with the newsletters, keeping up with the blog schedule has been challenging. Each missed deadline felt like a “failure”, but I realized that this mindset was holding me back.

Thomas Edison’s famous quote, "I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work," resonates deeply with me. It embodies the idea that every setback is an opportunity to learn and improve. 

In my honest assessment, I have been diligently working on my writing and research. When everything goes according to schedule, it feels great. But life is unpredictable, and schedules often need adjusting. Recognizing that the existing process isn’t working as desired, I am committed to experimenting with new strategies.

Acknowledging that a process isn’t working is not a failure. It’s a crucial step in learning what works best for us. By continuously refining our methods through trial and error, we can find the most effective paths to our goals. Giving up is the true failure; persistence and adaptation are the keys to success.

This mindset was crucial to Thomas Edison's success as an inventor. Here are a few key points about how Edison approached roadblocks and setbacks to success:

• Persistence: Edison's persistence is legendary. He and his team conducted thousands of experiments before successfully creating a viable light bulb. His ability to keep going despite numerous setbacks is a testament to his determination and resilience.

• Learning from Mistakes: Edison viewed each unsuccessful outcome as a learning opportunity. He believed that each unsuccessful attempt brought him closer to the solution, as it eliminated one more incorrect approach.

• Innovation Through Experimentation: Edison's approach to invention was highly experimental. He was willing to try many different methods and materials, which led to a lot of trial and error. This iterative process was integral to his eventual success.

• Attitude Toward Setback: Edison's positive attitude towards unsuccessful outcomes and denying them as failures was a key factor in his ability to continue innovating, a natural part of the creative process.

Thomas Edison's career exemplifies how embracing unsuccessful outcomes opens the field of possibilities on how to make it happen. His approach is a powerful reminder that persistence, learning from mistakes, and maintaining a positive attitude are crucial components to achieve success. As I continue my journey, I will embrace this mindset, seeing each setback as an opportunity to recognize an approach that doesn’t work for the specific purpose, learn from the process, experiment with new strategies, and hone my persistence until I make it happen.

As you go about your personal journey to become the best version of yourself, I encourage you to adopt this perspective in your own life. Remember, life is about experimentation and creation. Your attitude is the key to your success.

With Unconditional Love,

Coach Edna

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If you have any questions about any of the concepts discussed here, please feel free to reach out to me. Also, if you would like for me to expand on this or any other topic in previous articles, don’t hesitate to let me know. I will be happy to write.