Here's how you can maintain motivation after encountering failure at a conference.

To heal you need to feel. Feel those emotions of self-doubt, disappointment, and fear to try again. Then, think and envision what it would feel like when you are successful the next time you are at a conference. Soak in the feelings and emotions of how good that will feel. Feel bad, feel good. Repeat, but stay in the feel good a little longer each time. Keep repeating until you actual feel good. You will realize that that 'failed' experience was just practice for a greater more empowered experience.

I have found that most failures are opportunities to learn. When I have reached roadblocks, hitches or obstacles I use the time just after to take stock of where I went wrong, and strategize about how I would avoid such in the future. Once you come to grips with the fact that perfection isn't a reasonable expectation, you can accept that you have done your best, and will be better prepared next time.

One lesson I have grown to accept as a black professional is that we all deserve grace. When we are in the thick of a career setback, we are quick to question whether a specific role/industry is "for us." Of course it is, even when it doesn't feel like it. So long as you "bounce back," there is something to learn from and grow. Stay growing; it's the only way to win. Feel how you feel, but don't linger in negativity for too long. You deserve self-compassion in all expects of your life, but you especially deserve it with respect to your ever-changing career. #blkgrlmgclwyr

Acknowledging feelings is indeed a crucial first step and a sign of commitment. -However, it’s equally important to not dwell too long on these negative emotions. Use them as a catalyst for growth and improvement. -After acknowledging your feelings, channel that energy into constructive actions. Reflect on what went wrong and identify areas for improvement. -Seek feedback from peers or mentors. Understanding different perspectives can provide valuable insights and help you grow from the experience. Remember, setbacks are part of the learning process, driving your professional development and enhancing your future performance at conferences.

Desde mi filosofía, cada fracaso es un paso hacia el éxito, siempre que sientas y aceptes lo que tienes. Una vez, después de una conferencia que no salió como esperaba, me sentí muy frustrada. Pero me permití sentir esa frustración y, con el tiempo, aprendí que nadie nace sabiendo todo. Cada experiencia es una oportunidad para mejorar. La clave es aceptar tus sentimientos y usarlos como motivación para seguir adelante y mejorar continuamente.

The first thing to do when experiencing failure is to look for the lesson to learn. Reflecting objectively and in an unbiased manner is key to bouncing back and reemerging from failure. What could've you done better? Measure your result, re-study the process you apply to prepare for that conference. And then take those learnings and turn them into action.

Each failure brings new wisdom and insight into how to make things better and overcome obstacles. We don’t see it the first time because we are knee deep in the thick of things. It’s only when we can get through our emotions and see things in full perspective. Analyze what went wrong, what needs to be fixed or adjusted. Start from this angle.

Seeking feedback is always useful, as long as it comes from people who 1) have something meaningful and useful to tell you 2) have been in your shoes or can provide perspective and 3) have your best interest at heart. Additionally, it's always best to seek feedback from people from different walks of life. For example: senior-level colleagues or mentors, peers or colleagues, and members of your network who may not be familiar with the world of conferences, but who know you and your strengths and weaknesses. Always seek feedback, but do it wisely and make sure to implement the sound suggestions!

When you have a crew or staff or other vendors. It’s important to get feedback from them or the client to make things better. They may not have seen what you saw.

I have grown to accept that there is nothing wrong with re-evaluating goals that no longer serve you. Setting new goals is imperative to thriving in one's career. As life changes, your career needs will change, too. Failure to be flexible can be harmful; you deserve the best. You deserve an open mind! #blkgrlmgclwyr

It’s always good to re-evaluate what goals you have set and some that have not been achieved. Look at them and see what you can changed/adjusted or even removed.

There is power in the truth. There is power in numbers. If you are experiencing something with respect to your career, know you are probably not alone. The main issue with the world is that we don't talk to each other! Find your community; if you are a black woman professional, there are others who want to connect! When you begin to share your story, you will feel empowered! #blkgrlmgclwyr