In my 20 years of life, I have definitely felt defeated. Whether I did not make the team I worked so hard to make, got an undesirable grade, or just experienced one of life’s common daily Ls.
It happens to the best of us; however, I have outlined a few tips that will help you get back on your feet in no time.
1. A Negative is ALWAYS a positive
Sometimes after failing, you feel like completely giving up. The trick is to find a way to make your failure seem like a success. So, you didn’t make the team? Now you can join the club that you always wanted to that conflicted with the team’s practices. So, you went to shoot your shot and you got rejected? That person just missed out on all your greatness, and now you have the opportunity to be with someone who will treasure you. There is always a positive side to a negative experience. It may be hard to find initially, but the more you practice finding it, the happier and more successful you will be. (Thomas Edison said he figured out 1,000 ways how not to make a lightbulb! That’s the kind of positivity we all need.)
2. Take Some Notes
Make your “L” an educational lesson. There’s always something you can learn from failing, whether it be studying more, taking your time, or evaluating your situation. Even the most successful people have failed epically in their lives. Don’t be fooled by social media. Everyone may post their most successful stories, but what you don’t see is the hustle behind the achievement. Learn from your mistakes, and try again.
3. You are a Role Model
When you feel like giving up, remember that someone is always watching you. Not only are they observing your successes, but they are watching how you carry on after taking a major “L”. You are someone’s role model, so never give up and keep striving forward. Your success is not only for you, but for someone who strives to be like you. Don’t look at it as pressure, but think of it as motivation.
Remember, everyone has failed, everyone has taken an “L”, and everyone has felt hopeless. Your job is to push past these experiences, and recognize that your potential is limitless.