For many of us, safety and security are powerful, almost primal motivations. We like certitude, and knowing what we can reasonably expect and depend upon in life. But we also pine for success—however we define it.
It doesn’t take a lot of reflection to realize that every achievement flows from a certain measure of risk. For every achievement, failure is the other possible outcome; for every failure, achievement is the other possible outcome. It’s not a coincidence. It’s actually an obvious reality, since achievement can be defined as positive progress, and progress by necessity stems from developing new abilities, trying new things, and making a concerted effort.
If we truly desire success, one of the first things we must get comfortable with is the possibility of failure. Few people understand this as fundamentally as presenters, who not only face the possibility of failure with their career aspirations and efforts, but also put themselves directly in the spotlight and subject themselves to the possible criticism and judgment of others.
Even the best moments in most presentations are those that carry the risk of failure. Jokes, stories, challenges and calls to action are all more likely to fall flat than the standard bullet-points. But they’re also more likely to enthrall and entertain the audience. Presenters who have the confidence to take the risk most often experience the reward.
Of course, coming to grips with the possibility of failure is just a starting point. Learning to love and appreciate failure is where we all need to go. In the book, The Power of Failure, Charles Manz explains that for the most successful individuals, failures are not crises. They are learning experiences, opportunities to grow, change course, pivot and reorganize. When we lower our defenses and gain our confidence from our own determination and perseverance, failure becomes a powerful, positive force in our lives.
You don’t have to buy the logic to believe us. Just pick up any biography of an important historical figure and note the early parts of the story, riddled with failure after failure. Greatness doesn’t come in spite of failure; it is the result of a certain kind of response to failure.
Question: How can you embrace the possibility of failure to enhance your pursuit of success?
