Failure

Failure.

A word tied to so many feelings of inadequacy, feeling flawed, and inefficiency. But why?

It’s taken me until this point in my life to quiet that fear. The ‘what ifs’ and ‘who will sees’ are more quiet and background than they once were. To even vocalize (let alone publish) that I fail—and open to it—seems bizarre. But a new one that I welcome with open arms. 

So for all you fellow female entrepreneur’s out there, here are 5 tried and tested ways to overcome your failures and move on with that new knowledge just acquired.

1. You’re not the only one.

Are you the only one? Definitely not. Yes, of course you are special. But a version of what you’re going through has happened before, and will happen again. As this thought will inevitably come into your head, it’s best to be prepared. Use ‘The Google’ to research people you look up to; note their struggles, challenges and failures. They are human, just as you are. And once you realize how much your head is getting in the way, you will see just how strong and resilient you are.

2. It’s ok to rest!

When you fail, and I mean a biggy fall-on-your-face kind of failure, it’s ok to rest. You’re allowed and there’s no need to feel guilty. Your emotions are at an all time high and you need time to process. Depending on your situation, take an hour, an evening, or even a day to treat yourself. A walk, a meal (alone) at your favourite restaurant, a bubble bath. You will be more productive and in a better frame of mind once you’re mentally fully rested.

3. Don’t be rash.

It’s easy to be hasty or irrational after a failure. But one of the worst things you can do is make a thoughtless decision. Walk through the situation and honestly identify contributing factors, both of your own doing and external, as to why you were unable to succeed. It’s best to do this as if looking at yourself in the third person. If you need a fresh perspective, ask someone you trust, is supportive, and who will have a unbiased opinion. Once complete, re-access what will be the best way to move forward.

4. You are an incredible individual.

It times of failure, it is difficult to avoid that downward spiral. But the best thing you can do is be productive. List 10 things you’ve done which you’re proud of, 10 things which you like about yourself, and 10 things you’re grateful for. Now look at how truly exceptional you are!

5. Get up and try again!

We are our own worst critics. And that shows our dedication to being the best versions of yourself possible. But if you change the word ‘failure’ to ‘learning’ in your statements, you’ll see the immense amount of growth you’ve experienced. I find it helpful to write out what I've learnt. Using this new insight, let the past go, and move on. Once analyzed, there is no need to rehash - as you can’t change the past. We can only learn from it and try again!

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