I failed at creating a successful community on Google Plus. Also, the platform is now dead. Why didn’t I choose Instagram again?
As a result learned valuable SEO skills while failing at Google Plus that showed me the power of a key word and centralized theme in search results.
I failed at starting a music academy to teach piano lessons. I remember my wife proudly telling her family and friends that I had started it. She was so sure I’d be successful.
I remember the looks of uncertainty and doubt I could see in their faces juxtaposed against her look of pride and belief in me. It still pains me a little bit to think about it.
As a result I learned how to legally structure a business as an LLC and the importance of having a business plan prior to starting.
I failed to complete my bachelors degree in Applied Piano. Just shy about one semesters worth of courses plus my junior and senior recital.
As a result I learned a great deal about music and music theory while participating in multiple recitals, working as an accompanist and playing piano at a local church.
I failed at my first collegiate piano recital.
Literally forgetting the piece in the middle of playing on stage. I was one of the last to go and the piano keys were slick and slippery from the previous lady. Her hands had apparently been slathered in lotion right before she played her piece.
As a result I learned to be better prepared for performances and any unknown variables that could affect my play.
I didn’t make the basketball team in 7th grade. I was so sure my name would be on the list. I was wrong.
As a result I learned that you have to be so good that you are undeniable in whatever you do.
I could’ve made six figures in one transaction that cost me less than a thousand bucks… But I didn’t.
I bought thousands of shares of AIG for less than fifty cents per share in 2009 during the financial crises.
Then sold them all after the stock rose above $2.00 a share. I made money. A few months later it rallied to $50.00 a share though. I’m still shaking my head on that one.
As a result I learned how to buy equities and hold them.
I failed to attend my last living grandparent’s funeral. I still feel regret and disappointment.
As a result I learned to value folks while they are still alive and the importance of honoring their memory when the time comes.
In general I’ve learned to delight in failures and look forward to the valuable lessons to be learned so that I can ascend to new levels.
In life there will be failures. Choose to fail forward.
What have you learned from life’s failures? I would love to see your comments and read your thoughts.
Thanks,
Best.
LGJ
