‘Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better.’
Samuel Beckett
The words of Samuel Beckett are superbly motivational for me when something doesn’t quite work out as planned, or even fails (sometimes spectacularly!). They remind me to pick myself up, take a moment to compose myself, and try again. After all, it took Thomas Edison two years, and 1000 attempts, to get that light bulb to work. So maybe it’s not failure at all, it’s just tweaking the experiment until you find the way that works!
What helps you when you are faced with setbacks? Let me know in the comments below – I love hearing what you have to say.
Have you ever heard the Japanese proverb, 七転び八起き? (Fall down seven times, stand up eight.)
Every time you’re brave and tenacious enough to stand up again you try a slightly different way, until at some point you’re off and running. It’s only a failure if you don’t learn anything from it, right?
Absolutely Paige. Thanks for this. I love that Japanese saying
I find walking away and giving myself a break is usually what works, whether it be writing sewing patterns and something like a leg not fitting properly or trying to figure out some new software if I get to the point where I want to throw machinery out of the window then I know it is time to take a break. Coming back with fresh eyes usually makes all the difference.
I know what you mean Jo, especially with technology – and yes, I agree, walking away and returning later, a bit more refreshed usually does the job.
This is so true–especially hitting the halfway mark of the year!!! Thank you for reminding me to go easy on myself! You hit the nail on the head!!!
Gladyou got something from it Katie 🙂
Oh boy – am I working with this one right now. I used to have the keep going mantra, but somewhere along the line – I lost it. Am in the middle of reclaiming it, and hopefully moving on soon. Great inspiration. Thank you.