Are you really a failure?

There are those who say that failure builds character. They point out all successful people have failed in something. They conclude that the more failures you have, the more you grow.

You can find thousands—even hundreds of thousands—of blog posts touting one or more of the above maxims. These authors then argue that one should “celebrate failure.”

Such opinion pieces always get me scratching my head. I have the same reaction when I hear a friend confess with a sigh, “I failed.” Why would someone agree to label something they did that didn't work out “a failure”?

Let's say you poured time and energy into a feature article and no one responded.

Or you tried everything in a long marketing plan and no one responded.

It's natural to feel disappointed and upset. But should you consider the upshot “failure”? Are you viewing yourself as defeated by circumstances? You have lopped a stain onto your self-esteem that you then need to recover from.

Instead, you can observe what happened and go on to the next thing.

Failure does not bang you on the head. You accept that interpretation—or not.

Comments

Why Engaging with the Community Matters

Local businesses often find themselves competing not just with each other, but also with larger corporations. One effective way to stand out and create a loyal customer base is by actively participating in community events. We can explore the benefits of community involvement, different ways to engage, and how these efforts can create lasting connections. The Power of Community Engagement When businesses get involved in their local communities, they do more than just promote their brand; they build relationships. Here’s why community engagement is so powerful: Brand Recognition: Being present at local events increases visibility. People remember businesses that show up and support their community. Trust Building: When a business takes the time to give back, it fosters trust. Customers are more likely to support businesses that they see caring for their community. Networking Opportunities: Participating in community events opens doors to meet potential customers, partners, and collabora...

How to Showcase Your Soft Skills in a Job Interview

When it comes to job interviews, technical skills often take centre stage. However, soft skills are equally important and can make a significant difference in how candidates are perceived. So, how can one effectively demonstrate these essential soft skills during an interview? Let us take a look at some practical strategies.

The Culture of Business Planning in Small Enterprises

When it comes to small and privately run companies, the culture of business planning is often shaped by a few key principles. These principles not only guide the operations of the business but also foster a sense of community and purpose within the organization. We can examine the three main principles that define this culture. Flexibility and Adaptability For many small businesses, things can change in the blink of an eye. Whether it’s a shift in market demand, unexpected competition, or even a global pandemic, the ability to adapt is crucial. Responsive Planning: Small companies frequently create business plans that are living documents. This means they’re not set in stone; instead, they evolve as circumstances change. The culture encourages team members to regularly revisit and revise their strategies. Embracing Change: Employees are typically empowered to suggest changes based on their experiences and observations. This creates an environment where everyone feels valued and invest...

James Doan - Just Minding My Own Business

Search This Blog