Michael Jordan once said, “I’ve missed more than 9000 shots in my career…I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.” His words are a testament to the fact that failure isn’t the antithesis of success, but its foundation.
Fear of failure is a significant obstacle many of us face. It inhibits us, silencing our dreams and stifling our growth. I often grapple with self-doubt about my abilities and talents. Yet, I refuse to let these uncertainties hold me back. Instead, I use them as a catalyst to work harder, honing my craft day and night. It may not be perfect, but I strive to improve, undeterred by minor setbacks.
Acknowledging your mistakes is the first step towards learning. It’s okay to be wrong – what’s essential is learning from it and moving forward. Rather than dwelling on my errors, I choose to recognize them, find ways to improve, and ensure I don’t repeat them.
My journey hasn’t been devoid of rejection. From job applications to art school admissions, comic book art submissions, and publishing houses, I’ve faced numerous rejections. There were instances where my abilities were questioned, where my work was considered not good enough. Instead of succumbing to defeat, I sought solutions, improved my skills, and kept trying.
These rejections ultimately led me down the path to a successful career doing what I love. They weren’t roadblocks, but detours directing me towards my true passion.
Striving for progress rather than perfection has been my mantra. It’s important to understand that your craft will not be perfect at the outset. What matters more is consistent improvement, the relentless pursuit of bettering your skills, which is the true mark of success.
Remember, the fear of failure should not deter you. In fact, it should fuel your passion and drive your ambitions. It is through the trials of failure that we uncover the path to success. So, embrace failure, let it guide you, and find your unique definition of success. After all, as Michael Jordan has shown us, failure is simply another stepping stone on the journey to greatness.