So You Are Dealing with Failure. Now What?
There are always excuses to stop us from accomplishing greatness in our lives. Some of them might even be legitimate. But there is nothing that stops me from trying harder than dealing with failure. After all, failure is the best excuse of all: “I’ve gave my best shot and fail. I’m moving on.” No one can fault you for that. You tried. You did your best. Now it’s time to move on, right? Well, not so fast.
Recently I was reminded of the many failures Abraham Lincoln faced before he was finally elected president.
In 1831, Abraham Lincoln failed in business.
In 1832, Abraham Lincoln was defeated for state legislator.
In 1833, Abraham Lincoln tried a new business, and failed.
In 1835, Abraham Lincoln’s fiancée died.
In 1836, Abraham Lincoln had a nervous breakdown.
In 1843, Abraham Lincoln ran for Congress and was defeated.
In 1848, Lincoln ran again, and was defeated. Again.
In 1855, Lincoln ran for the Senate, and lost.
In 1856, Lincoln ran for Vice President, and lost.
In 1859, Lincoln ran again for the Senate. He was defeated.
Then, in 1860, Abraham Lincoln was elected President of the United States.
I’m not a student of Mr. Lincoln’s life, but I know he was human and no matter how resolute one is, failure is always painful. I’m sure his nervous breakdown was not the result of success.
Chances are there are some area or areas in our lives we are dealing with failure: a job, a marriage, a relationship, our own expectations. We can say we tried and give up. Or we can try again. And again. And again. It’s easier said than done, but it can be done.
Is there a failure in your life you should try again, but the fear of a repeat performance is stopping you?
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Mark Jeffress
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Maurilio Amorim
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Scott Kantner
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WilliamIV
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