What makes one person succeed while the other one changes jobs every 6 months? Is it talent, intelligence, determination, grit, or mindset? Some would argue that it’s a combination, while others would say it’s their intelligence. And still, others would argue that it’s grit and determination that allows you to achieve your goals. According to Carol S. Dweck, success comes with a growth mindset. In her book: Mindset: The New Psychology of Success, Dweck credits an open mindset for success. According to Alfred Binet, it’s not always the most intelligent who finish first. Kids are programmed to seek validation from parents, teachers, and coaches from a young age. Stickers, trophies, and awards are given to the best and the brightest. But it doesn’t stop there.
This need for approval continues into adulthood as well. Whether in relationships or careers, we long to be recognized for our hard work or achievements. “Every situation is evaluated: Will I succeed or fail? Will I look smart or dumb? Will I be accepted or rejected? Will I feel like a winner or a loser? (Dweck, 8). While there’s nothing wrong with wanting to succeed, this all-or-nothing mentality can keep one from accomplishing their goals in life. Is it so bad to fail? Absolutely not. And can failure eventually lead to success? The answer is unequivocal: Yes! If we look throughout the annals of history, we can see evidence of failure followed by success. More recently, some names come to mind: Walt Disney, Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, Arianna Huffington, Jill Abramson, Vera Wang, and many others. J.K. Rowling said it best: “It is impossible to live without failing at something unless you live so cautiously that you might as well not have lived at all, in which case you have failed by default.” So take a risk, take a chance but don’t allow failure to prevent you from accomplishing your next goal.