69 answers
Murtaza
Student
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
1
Question
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What is your definition of failure?
I have seen people struggle in different ways based on the task or project we take up. Does that mean we all struggle in the same way? #college
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69 answers
Carter Pichardo
Assurance Associate
9
Answers
Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey
Updated
Carter’s Answer
Hey Murtaza,
This is a great question!
Everybody is unique and has their own definition on what constitutes true failure for them. We all do not struggle the same way. In my experiences throughout my own life and my career path, true failure is when you commit your very being into something (whether it be an assignment, major exam, job etc.), you fall short of your expectations, and then ultimately give up because you cannot cope with the fact that you could not hit your objective. I believe that when you give up, that is when you fail. It's crucial to understand that whatever endeavors/goals you set for yourself in life, you cannot let setbacks stop you from achieving your goals. Failure breeds success. Some of the most successful people in this world have failed a countless amount of times before they ever became successful. Failure is often times necessary because it will force you to think/act differently. You will learn so much through failure, always be cognizant of that!
Good luck in your journey my friend!
This is a great question!
Everybody is unique and has their own definition on what constitutes true failure for them. We all do not struggle the same way. In my experiences throughout my own life and my career path, true failure is when you commit your very being into something (whether it be an assignment, major exam, job etc.), you fall short of your expectations, and then ultimately give up because you cannot cope with the fact that you could not hit your objective. I believe that when you give up, that is when you fail. It's crucial to understand that whatever endeavors/goals you set for yourself in life, you cannot let setbacks stop you from achieving your goals. Failure breeds success. Some of the most successful people in this world have failed a countless amount of times before they ever became successful. Failure is often times necessary because it will force you to think/act differently. You will learn so much through failure, always be cognizant of that!
Good luck in your journey my friend!
Jimmy Macdonald
Tax Associate
3
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Jimmy’s Answer
I believe as long as you genuinely embark on something, you either win or you learn, there is no failure. As one of my favorite shows puts it
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take" Wayne Gretzky -Michael Scott
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take" Wayne Gretzky -Michael Scott
Great point Jimmy. There is no failure in learning. And extra up votes for the Michael Scott hockey reference!
Melisa Cameron
Dee Flanary
Indirect Account Manager
2
Answers
Easton, Pennsylvania
Updated
Dee’s Answer
My definition of failure is "not trying". If you don't try you won't learn anything and that's failure. I think it is all in your mindset. There is a book
called "ADAPT: Why Success Always Starts with Failure". Everything is trial and error and there is always room for improvement. It is always a
journey to learn and adapt along the way.
called "ADAPT: Why Success Always Starts with Failure". Everything is trial and error and there is always room for improvement. It is always a
journey to learn and adapt along the way.
Debjeet Basak
TECHNICAL CONSULTING ENGINEER
15
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Debjeet’s Answer
I will keep it short and sweet. My definition of failure has always been a small roadblock on your way towards your goal. Nothing more. Always keep in mind that "Failure is the pillar of success."
Piyush Chitkara
Solution Architect
3
Answers
Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Updated
Piyush’s Answer
Hey Murtaza, term 'failure' is just one's perspective. To some its seen as lessons learnt, whereas to others its a realisation to do something more.
We have been raised from the childhood to understand the definition of the success and its so much in our DNA that when we are not able to achieve something that we thought we could, we term that state as 'failure'. Now there might be many reasons behind the why and what of the situation that led to the moment. But, at that moment, the most important questions one must ask him/herself are:
1. Have I given my best to what I wanted to do?
2. Have I learnt anything from it?
3. Do I know what I want to do next?
If at that moment one can answers of all the above three questions, one understands the perspective and definition behind the term "Failure". To some its seen as lessons learnt, whereas to others its a realisation to do something more.
We have been raised from the childhood to understand the definition of the success and its so much in our DNA that when we are not able to achieve something that we thought we could, we term that state as 'failure'. Now there might be many reasons behind the why and what of the situation that led to the moment. But, at that moment, the most important questions one must ask him/herself are:
1. Have I given my best to what I wanted to do?
2. Have I learnt anything from it?
3. Do I know what I want to do next?
If at that moment one can answers of all the above three questions, one understands the perspective and definition behind the term "Failure". To some its seen as lessons learnt, whereas to others its a realisation to do something more.
Chirayu Rupani
Data Analyst
295
Answers
Frisco, Texas
Updated
Chirayu’s Answer
I think failure is generally defined as the inability to achieve a desired outcome or objective. Failure can occur in different ways and can be relative to each individual's circumstances, goals, and expectations. People can have different interpretations and experiences of failure, and it can also vary in its severity and impact. Ultimately, failure is a part of the learning and growth process and can be used as an opportunity to reflect, improve, and ultimately succeed.
Sofia Faria
Lead
12
Answers
Porto, Portugal
Updated
Sofia’s Answer
Hi Murtaza H.,
Once I read this and I never forget:
F.A.I.L. - "First attemp in learning"
;)
Once I read this and I never forget:
F.A.I.L. - "First attemp in learning"
;)
Manish Rawat
Consultant
6
Answers
Chandigarh, India
Updated
Manish’s Answer
HI Murtuza,
We ALL Struggle. "Struggle " should be seen as a New Learning opportunity rather than a tired activity.
It's just that some people gets the learning, by quickly seeing other people struggle and Others learn by self committing errors.
Struggle becomes a tiresome activity if it is accompanied by other factors like fear of entering unknown zone.
I usually encounter Struggle by writing negative thoughts that come in during struggle phase and then final outcome i see when i come out of the struggle, which indicates lots of negative thoughts that i had were not only baseless but never happened during the struggle. So remembering the past experience and moving forward with hope, thats the way it is for me.
Cheers!
Manish
We ALL Struggle. "Struggle " should be seen as a New Learning opportunity rather than a tired activity.
It's just that some people gets the learning, by quickly seeing other people struggle and Others learn by self committing errors.
Struggle becomes a tiresome activity if it is accompanied by other factors like fear of entering unknown zone.
I usually encounter Struggle by writing negative thoughts that come in during struggle phase and then final outcome i see when i come out of the struggle, which indicates lots of negative thoughts that i had were not only baseless but never happened during the struggle. So remembering the past experience and moving forward with hope, thats the way it is for me.
Cheers!
Manish
Mario E. Gonzalez L.
Sustainability and Corporate Responsibilty
1
Answer
Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
Updated
Mario E.’s Answer
To me, there are two types of people when it comes to failure: i) those who have fear to take risks, so they don't often/or never make mistakes, or do something out of their confort zone and ii) people who sometimes or often make mistakes, because they take the risks and the actions. Within the people willing to take risks, there are two additional types of people: i) those who learn from failure and ii) those who don't.
In our culture, failure is not widely accepted, however, this is changing. I think failure can be either a source of discovery and new valuable knowledge about ourselves or the evidence for some to stop trying. Failure is what you choose to be for you. Choose wisely, do your best, be willing to take risks and learn from failure fast!
Edison failed many times before he invited the bulb.
Mario
In our culture, failure is not widely accepted, however, this is changing. I think failure can be either a source of discovery and new valuable knowledge about ourselves or the evidence for some to stop trying. Failure is what you choose to be for you. Choose wisely, do your best, be willing to take risks and learn from failure fast!
Edison failed many times before he invited the bulb.
Mario
Hi Mario, I had to edit your post and remove your link because it contained profanity.
Gurpreet Lally, Admin
Jackie DeCicco
Front Desk Agent or Guest Experience Expert
40
Answers
Fort Myers, Florida
Updated
Jackie’s Answer
Everybody has their own obstacles when it comes to learning especially learning new things. For example, some tasks or projects might come easy to others such as test taking or memorizing, but lack in sports and fitness. Everybody has their strengths and their weaknesses, and everybody struggles from their weaknesses. If there are things that are you are having a difficulty achieving then don't let that stop you, allow it to challenge you to do better the next time, and know that practice makes perfect.
Some even struggle with learning disabilities; however, through tutoring and lots of practice can still be achieved. Also, know that failure is apart of life and that life would not be what it is if everything was handed to us; we have to prove its worth by working hard for it. That's what makes life difficult because when we fail we think to give up but this is life's way of tricking us.
If you are struggling with a task and can seek out help this is most advised because whether its a physical or mental task, two heads are better than one; meaning someone else's advice or help can be useful for a different perspective.
Know that you should never give up!
Some even struggle with learning disabilities; however, through tutoring and lots of practice can still be achieved. Also, know that failure is apart of life and that life would not be what it is if everything was handed to us; we have to prove its worth by working hard for it. That's what makes life difficult because when we fail we think to give up but this is life's way of tricking us.
If you are struggling with a task and can seek out help this is most advised because whether its a physical or mental task, two heads are better than one; meaning someone else's advice or help can be useful for a different perspective.
Know that you should never give up!
Samantha Morris
General Manager
9
Answers
Onalaska, Wisconsin
Updated
Samantha’s Answer
To me failure is an accomplishment. To fail at something it means you tried to achieve a task. Everyone has their own definition of failure because we all perceive not completing something perfectly in a different way, i.e a math test some find a B to be acceptable and a success where as others wont accept anything beside an A as success . The most important thing about failing is looking back at the situation and asking yourself what could I have done differently to change the outcome of the task. You then need to use your self reflection to determine what you are going to do differently going forward. When we "fail" at something we feel vulnerable and sometimes want to put walls up when getting feedback from others. Whether it be in that moment or a few hours, days, whatever amount of time you need to look at the feedback given, it is important to acknowledge and makes changes based on this because it is another person perspective of the situation and is most likely being given from a source of past experience and is only there to help you improve. Through out my career I have built mentor relationships with past colleagues and lean in on these people when I feel I have failed at something.
Self Reflect on what could have been done differently to make the task a success
Find a colleague or classmate that can be your mentor
Samantha recommends the following next steps:
Pushkaraj Lahankar
Network Consultant Engineer
6
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Pushkaraj’s Answer
In one line answer, failure is a step towards success.
Do you remember how many times you fell, before you could successfully ride a bicycle or how many hours you spent on guitar perfecting that song you like.
We all struggle. May be not at the same task, but we all have that one thing we would like to achieve and we keep trying until we succeed. I would say, if you are not failing at a task ever, then that task is too simple for you and you have to move to a difficult task.
My attitude towards failure:
Yes, I failed. That means, there is something I missed, miscalculated, misjudged or did differently. Failure means there is a scope for you to grow. Failure is the key to gain experience. Failure is the challenge that keeps you going. In short, failure is a step towards success.
Do you remember how many times you fell, before you could successfully ride a bicycle or how many hours you spent on guitar perfecting that song you like.
We all struggle. May be not at the same task, but we all have that one thing we would like to achieve and we keep trying until we succeed. I would say, if you are not failing at a task ever, then that task is too simple for you and you have to move to a difficult task.
My attitude towards failure:
Yes, I failed. That means, there is something I missed, miscalculated, misjudged or did differently. Failure means there is a scope for you to grow. Failure is the key to gain experience. Failure is the challenge that keeps you going. In short, failure is a step towards success.
Kannan A C
Project Manager
3
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Kannan’s Answer
I think the definition varies for every individual… It’s a very broad question so answering specific to your statement about the tasks and project that you take up, for me a failure is something where I have committed a mistake and there is no learning, or I don’t learn anything from it. A repeat of the same mistake is also considered failure in my opinion.
Darrell Jackson
Manager
2
Answers
Upper Marlboro, Maryland
Updated
Darrell’s Answer
Struggling with things in life is just way to see that we are growing in that subject. You can not grow by doing the things you already know how to do. Embrace the challenges in life and count all things as learning opportunities. I hope this helps!
Lester Malanowski Jr
Account Manager
6
Answers
Fox Lake, Illinois
Updated
Lester’s Answer
Failure is subjective to the individual. One person's perception to have failed might not be the same to another. For me Failure often correlates to not obtaining a desired objective, goal, or thing. Often times this is identified with sports like not winning of game or championship. Most successful people in societies eyes state that they learned more and had more come out of their failures vs their successes. To fail for me has changed throughout my tenure, and currently is defined to me as " me not putting maximum effort into daily tasks and moments to ensure I am getting maximum enjoyment out of whatever it is I am doing." If I am not the most present I can be as well as giving the most effort and commitment to whatever it is I am trying to do, then I have failed myself and that moment."
stefan buschnyj
Technician
22
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
stefan’s Answer
Hi Murtaza,
Everyone faces struggles and setbacks. Nobody is perfect or an expert on everything. There are many things we do not have any control over. Often the only thing we can control is our reaction. Therefore it is important to focus on how we react. Are we making things worse? Can we make things better? What can we learn from the setback? Most struggles are not unique. Someone, somewhere, at some time had the same or similar struggle. We are not alone in this regard. By reading about, observing, and learning how others have dealt with or deal with struggles, we can gain insight and inspiration. This can make us better prepared to deal with our own struggles.
Good luck and keep learning.
Everyone faces struggles and setbacks. Nobody is perfect or an expert on everything. There are many things we do not have any control over. Often the only thing we can control is our reaction. Therefore it is important to focus on how we react. Are we making things worse? Can we make things better? What can we learn from the setback? Most struggles are not unique. Someone, somewhere, at some time had the same or similar struggle. We are not alone in this regard. By reading about, observing, and learning how others have dealt with or deal with struggles, we can gain insight and inspiration. This can make us better prepared to deal with our own struggles.
Good luck and keep learning.
Brandon Dang
212
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Brandon’s Answer
I don't really think that there is anything that can be a "failure". I think that "failures" are more things that happen in real life that might have not turned out as expected in a negative way. However, these failures are things that we have to learn from so that they do not happen again. Those that cannot learn from the successes and failures from their own projects suffer from being the true "failure".
Nicole Fernandez-Valle
Recruiter
8
Answers
Miami, Florida
Updated