We do not speak enough about failure! The tendency is to view failing one dimensionally and to self – judge at a surface level. The incorrect perception that one must give up, and the energy – depleting harsh self-talk – that many people subject themselves to. Or, worse still to shift the blame on our life experiences, or other people.

But there is energy, and a glut of learning in failing. It is a far more fertile mind-soil to explore, than that of success. Lessons learned, practice, and new angles discovered; simply through quietude and constructive analysis: – teach us that failure fuels success. Thomas Edison: inventor of the light bulb and phonograph said, “I have not failed. I’ve found 10,000 ways that it won’t work”. If he’d given up, then we would not be an illuminated world.

I read another quote, not mine, which is bursting with rich useful action- “A winner is just a loser who tried one more time”.

Factually, anyone whom you admire has failed, from Sir Isaac Newton to Gordon Ramsay. But there is a healthy attribute in their mindset – that fuels their energy. Such people don’t waste time- wallowing in self-pity; they purposefully look for lessons – and apply them. They actively seek constructive criticism and they listen relentlessly. They keep on experimenting and trying.

When I was learning to drive, and I was the first disabled pupil my instructor had taught: I failed my test three times. In one of the tests, I broke for a squirrel. But I needed to drive, public transport is expensive, and my purpose – my daughter.

So, the takeaway for you, is to focus on your purpose, which might be:- save money / pleasure / higher independence etc.

Whatever it may be that you wish to succeed at, think of your purpose as arm bands for the mind. It doesn’t have to be of high monetary value. It could be that you want to learn sugar craft – because you enjoy baking, but you want to learn new decorating skills. Your purpose in this example might be to put a smile of child wonderment: you have created their favorite Disney character!

Try to steer clear of falling into the pitfalls of giving up on your success. We humans have a phenomenal capacity to learn new skills, irrespective of age and initial ability. And when you succeed in one new passion, then you will find it moreish – and you will wish to learn something else new.

I hope you find this helpful.

SUNNY wishes,

Emma x