by Carjamin Scott on February 9, 2020 at 9:21 p.m. CST
When you aim high, failure is inevitable; only grit and resilience can combat it. Robert F. Kennedy said, “Only those who dare to fail greatly can ever achieve.” Our lowest moments can propel us forward. We must fail, it is just as important as success.
People with grit and resilience consistently get things done no matter the obstacles in their way. They are malleable and have the emotional strength to endure tough times. When faced with difficulty, they learn from it quickly and become stronger as a result of it. Improve your grit and resilience with these five steps to overcome failure.
1. Accept the failure.
Acceptance is the first step to recovery. It happened, now what? In order to move on, you have to own it. When you dismiss your failures, you repeat them. Take time to assess the situation, learn from it, and heal.
2. Forgive yourself and others.
Now is not the time to play the blame game. Stop blaming others for what happened and stop blaming yourself. Maya Angelou said, “It’s one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself. Forgive everybody.” Bitterness and resentment are heavy; forgiveness is light. Let go of what happened to move forward.
3. Stop fighting.
It’s time to surrender. Psalm 110:1 reads, “Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool at your feet.” When you are in relationship with the Lord, he will use your enemies to improve your situation. Sometimes, we are our own worst enemy. Don’t be a footstool, you will hold yourself back. And there is no reason to fight enemies, it is a waste of time. True believers know that God will intercede. Love yourself and love others.
4. Practice and understand grace.
There are many definitions of grace. I define grace as acting in kindness, mercy, and compassion towards myself and others even when it isn’t deserved. It’s important to give and receive grace after a failure. Let grace restore you. Try it and watch what happens.
5. Do it for someone else.
If you can’t get back up after a failure, get back up for someone else. You never know who is watching you and who your story is impacting. So get up and keep going. Henry Ford said, “When everything seems to be going against you, remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it.”
Never underestimate the power of failure. Let it help you build confidence and toughness. Next time, you will try harder and dream bigger. You’ve got this!
You are Accepted: How to Get Accepted into College and Life
Carjie Scott provides a first-hand account of her experience as an administrator serving at trade schools, graduate institutions, and HBCUs. You are Accepted, is required reading for first-generation college students and higher education professionals. It encourages readers to own their story and accept themselves so that they can transform education for individuals who were historically excluded from attending college.
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