Failing Forward: Uncovering Valuable Lessons in Failure

"Failure is simply the opportunity to begin again, this time more intelligently." - Robin Li, co-founder of Baidu.

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Failure can be defined as the lack of success or the inability to achieve a desired outcome or goal.

It is a situation where one's efforts or actions do not produce the intended or expected results.

Failure is often associated with disappointment, setback, or a negative outcome.

However, it is important to note that failure is not inherently negative or permanent. It can be seen as a valuable learning experience that provides insight, growth, and an opportunity for improvement.

Failure can offer lessons, resilience, and motivation to try again with a different approach or mindset.

Ultimately, the meaning of failure is subjective and can vary depending on individual perspectives and circumstances.

Let me share 2 personal story.

Story 1

I recalled receiving my year 1 Temasek Polytechnic results, I failed 1 subject, it was imprinted a “F” grade.

I was shocked, and scared.

I thought my studies was over.

When I brought it home, my dad did not speak a single word that evening. The next day, he told me that he would support me to finish up my study in polytechnic, asking me to complete my National Service and get a job.

For the next 3 years, I worked hard, and I came in as the director lists - top 10% cohort of my diploma.

Lesson learned: I learned by having study groups that motivate each other to study and mentors, with better time management and self-discipline, it is possible to complete the impossible. I was glad I tried and did not give up.

Story 2

My dad asks me to get a job after my poly and National Service.

During my National Service, i was worried for my future.

I decided to further my study, my application to universities over the next 3 months were all REJECTED.

Although I was a top 10% cohort student, but I could not get into the universities.

The reason that was given was that the course of my diploma was not widely recognised, in addition, I failed my 1st year of study.

Determined to get a higher education, I looked for my lecturer to help me write a letter of application, thank you to Dr Yuan Min, she wrote me a letter of application.

At the same time, I exchange my time to do some work in the school lab, which is a great refresher for me.

A win-win deal.

Eventually I got into 澳大利亚南澳大学 , majoring in Bachelor of Technology (Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering)

Lesson learned: Never give up, you can find a way to succeed if you want to. Failure is not the end.

Looking back at my journey, I have failed multiple times academically and along my career path.

I started as

1) an engineer,

2) moving into insurance,

3) setting up a business in laptop skin, failing it,

4) moving into Banking

5) advancing to be a Licensed Fund Manager in Singapore.

The easy way out would be listening to my dad, to stop education and get a job.

I did get a job, and I successfully pivot to finance and eventually become a fund manager.

These are my 5 advices on overcoming failures:

1) ??Embrace failure as a learning opportunity: Instead of viewing failure as a setback or a reflection of your worth, see it as a chance to learn and grow. Analyze what went wrong, identify the lessons you can take away, and use that knowledge to improve your approach in the future.

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2) ??Reframe your perspective: Shift your mindset from seeing failure as a negative outcome to viewing it as a steppingstone towards success. Understand that many successful individuals have experienced failures along the way and that it is often an essential part of the journey to achievement.

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3)???Seek support from others: Reach out to trusted friends, family members, mentors, or teachers who can provide guidance, encouragement, and a fresh perspective. Sharing your experiences and receiving support can help you gain new insights and maintain your motivation.

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4)???Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself in the face of failure. Treat yourself with understanding, forgiveness, and patience. Avoid self-blame or harsh criticism, and instead focus on constructive ways to move forward and improve.

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5)? ??Set new goals and take action: After experiencing failure, set new goals that align with your aspirations. Break them down into smaller, manageable steps and take proactive action towards them. By focusing on the future and taking positive steps, you can regain momentum and overcome the setbacks caused by failure.

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Here are 3 books that I recommend:

1)?"Mindset: The New Psychology of Success" by Carol S. Dweck - This book explores the concept of growth mindset and how it can help individuals overcome failures and achieve success.

2) "Failing Forward: Turning Mistakes into Steppingstones for Success" by John C. Maxwell - In this book, Maxwell shares inspiring stories and practical strategies for embracing failure, learning from it, and using it as a stepping stone to achieve greater success.

3)? "The Obstacle Is the Way: The Timeless Art of Turning Trials into Triumph" by Ryan Holiday - Drawing from ancient philosophy, this book offers wisdom on overcoming obstacles and transforming failures into opportunities for personal and professional growth

Failures form parts and parcels of our life journey, it makes our lives feel like a roller coaster, there are the UPs and the DOWNs.

What are some ways you have tried to apply during the down time?

Share in comments below. ????

沈玟企Michael

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