Being Known For Failure
Today I heard the story of golf player Jean Van de Velde and how he completely came apart in the final hole of the 1999 British Open. He went from having a 3 stroke lead going into the 18th hole to losing the championship because it took him 7 shots to get the ball in the hole. Since 1999, every time his name is mentioned it’s, “Remember, he’s the guy that choked big time at the British Open.”
I found myself really enjoying that story because of just how tragic it is. When the failure is that massive its almost impossible to look away. Yet, when I fail in public, like I did a few weeks ago, it makes you want to crawl into a hole and never come out.
I keep telling myself that recovery from failure—the ability to get up and try again—is probably THE most important skill anyone can have. Being willing to be seen again, knowing everyone looking at you has seen you at your worst, is necessary to obtain any level of success. It is vulnerable. It is humbling. It feels exposing. And it is essential.
Popularity: 8% [?]
