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How Would You Define Failure?

Posted by Stephanie Robertson on September 14th, 2009

: What is your standard for success?

This question was presented while reading one of my favorite books by John Ortberg. The answer decidedly will differ from one individual to the next depending on life’s variables. I was inspired to create a synopsis of what I thought failure was which lead me to define, in depth, the terms “failure” and “success.” I will begin with the positive.

Success – The applied opportunity to abandon self created limitations, imposed ideologies and personal miscalculations to discover another plateau of life unparalleled to the one you just grew beyond.

Words commonly associated with “success”
Yes, can, shall, could, would, will, do, positive, limitless

Failure – A man made stronghold which discourages educational, spiritual, philosophical and physical growth through silhouettes of doubt, pride and complacency. The emergence of failure is rooted from the isolation of fear.

Words commonly associated with “failure”
No, can’t, shouldn’t, couldn’t, wouldn’t, won’t, don’t, negative, limitations

How do you measure your success or failure without a concise guideline? If you have not defined your standard of “success” and your statement of “failure” then I encourage you to drop everything and begin this very moment.

Exercise: 1. Develop a definition for your standard of success.

Tips for creating a “standard of success”

Your standard should reflect the true value of where you aspire to be.
Your standard should include ideas that are positive and motivating.
Include words commonly associated with your definition of success and apply them to your daily vocabulary.
Love it! This standard will be your blueprint of motivation for achievement.

2. Develop a definition for your statement of failure.

Tips for creating a “statement of failure“

Clearly define what you don’t want to attract and include it in your statement.
Reflect on past failures an incorporate those feelings into your statement.
Admit what has held you back and express those fears in your statement.
Include words commonly associated with your definition of failure and refuse to incorporate them into your vocabulary.
Hate it! Your statement of failure is only to be read to remind you of where you don’t want to go or who you don’t want to be.

3. Submit your definitions to CareerTear.com or CareerTier.com through our “Contact Us” option. The best responses will be included in a follow up October blog.