Why We Shouldn’t Fear Failure

Why We Shouldn’t Fear Failure

While I was listening to the radio during a morning drive, a thirty-seven-year-old woman called in and shared an inspiring story.

As a child, an accident caused her to lose all the fingers on one hand. At the hospital, three surgeons told her mother there was nothing that could be done. A fourth surgeon became aware of the situation just as he was leaving for the day. He approached her mother and said he was willing to attempt the surgery necessary to reattach the fingers to the girl’s hand.

His words: “What do we have to lose by trying?”

The surgery was successful, and today the woman has full feeling and movement in her hand.

Some years later, the woman felt compelled to call his wife and ask if she knew what he had done for a little girl that day. The doctor had since died. His wife said he’d never spoken about the surgery to his family, as he usually kept quiet about his work.

The doctor didn’t perform the surgery out of desire to elevate himself. He just wanted to help. And because of being willing to try, he changed a little girl’s life. In more ways than one. Not only does she have a normal, functioning hand, the woman learned something she’ll never forget. Don’t be afraid to try something out of fear that you might fail.

Failure has gotten a bad rap. But, what if we were to approach it differently?

The difference between stepping stones and stumbling blocks is not in the event itself but how you think about it and what you do after it. Every failure and setback can become part of your success or an excuse for quitting or failing. People who develop the discipline of positivity are both happier and more successful. ~  Michael Josephson

We all become disappointed when plans fail, hopes don’t materialize, or goals aren’t reached. And when we become discouraged, it can become difficult to remain positive.

But . . . fear isn’t from God. Hasn’t he promised to always be with us? Hasn’t he told us to NOT be afraid?

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. ~ Isaiah 41:10 NIV

For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, do not fear; I will help you. ~ Isaiah 41:13

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. ~ Joshua 1:9 NIV

Fear stops us from being all that we are meant to be . . . and from accomplishing all that we are meant to do.

Keep on beginning and failing. Each time you fail, start all over again, and you will grow stronger until you have accomplished a purpose—not the one you began with perhaps, but one you’ll be glad to remember. ~ Anne Sullivan

What do you have to lose by trying? What is the worst thing that could happen if you fail?

Suggested reading: “Overcoming Fear of Failure”

Dawn