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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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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!
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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
Thank you comment icon Great point Jimmy. There is no failure in learning. And extra up votes for the Michael Scott hockey reference! Melisa Cameron
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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.
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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.
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Sofia’s Answer

Hi Murtaza H.,

Once I read this and I never forget:
F.A.I.L. - "First attemp in learning"

;)
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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.
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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."
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Ravi’s Answer

There is no definition of failure...It is how you handle the failure is the point.
If you stop after failure then that is actual failure but if you move ahead then it is a step toward success.
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Shanim’s Answer

The definition of failure varies for each and every individual, for me failure is not falling down but refusing to get up .
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Michael’s Answer

I look at failure as this: Fail=First Attempt At Learnng. Think of it as not a negative but as a positive learning experience. When you focus on the positive it will help motive you to go forward and continue over and over until you are successful. Never , Never, Never Give Up!
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Terence’s Answer

"Failure" falls into so many buckets or definitions. I think in general it's trying something and having it not workout. There are more negative connotations associated with the term, but in many instances, failure is perfectly fine. Trying out something and having it not work out it is ok, whether it's a work project or a quick trial of new approach.

One bit of advice I recall when I was younger was that "you can afford to fail 3-4 times when you're young". In other words, it was encouraged to try something and be ok with failing. When you're younger (or more specifically, when you have less tying you down like a mortgage or family), you have a longer runway to recover and try new things.
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Saranya’s Answer

My Definition of Failure is not trying and giving up easily. As the Famous quote suggest Failures are the stepping stones to success. Until you are trying and finding an improvement to your previous effort nothing is considered a failure. Each drop of water forms a cloud so each of your failures has something which you should learn and once you have learned you will be showering like the Rain from the cloud.
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Keith’s Answer

Everyone in life has different definitions for the word "Failure". A previous mentor of mine told me that "Failure" was not the act itself, but the act of giving up, or not wanting to get back up after we get defeated in some form, shape, or fashion. If you have time, look into the company that makes WD40 & find out why it is called this name.

Keith recommends the following next steps:

I am going to recommend a book to you that I have read several times. The name of the book is "Failing Forward" by John C Maxwell. My favorite chapter is 15.
Perhaps as a recommendation, define what "Success" looks like and the word "Failure" will become less dominant. :)
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Virat’s Answer

Struggle is the inherent part of life. The day we stop struggling we are dead. The struggle could be to get success as you define it & then there is always a struggle to make up for the position of success.

The 'Failure' in my definition is either you stopped trying or you missed to act on time. But what is important is to take the lessons from your failures as these are the most valuable things they leave behind. Also keep failures in mind not to fear but to remember the magnitude you need to enhance to overcome next time !!

Good Luck for your success !!
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madhulika’s Answer

Most people fail at some point in their lives. Failure is a reality of Life. It’s a necessary and fundamental part of life. They give us lessons that are must-haves for success.
So according to me word Failure should be replaced by Experience. There is always something you can Learn from your mistakes or so called failure.
In my point of view, failure is something which let us constantly learn with more enthusiasm and hard work. Failure is not the result but a practice to get passed in a satisfied way.
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Martin’s Answer

Murtaza I have to be honest I find this question so personally interpretive. To me failure is a necessity as it's our greatest teacher. If we knew everything we would have nothing to learn and no way to fail or find a way to not do it. The glass half full or silver lining approach is the most appropriate way to understand this.



Best of luck
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Surbhi’s Answer

We all do struggle but there are people to whom things come naturally while some have to put in additional effort. Failure is when you are working on the task in a given direction without seeking feedback and assuming its correct and setting up yourself and your team for failure. Keep looking back and keep iterating while constantly seeking feedback and hence course correcting and learning from your mistakes.